Modern Mentor The 3 fundamental human needs that aren't changing about work, with JP Elliot
Dec 2, 2025
JP Elliott, founder of Future of HR Consulting and host of the Future of HR podcast, dives into the enduring human needs in the workplace: belonging, mastery, and meaning. He discusses how these elements remain critical despite technological changes like AI. JP emphasizes the leader's role in fostering an engaging environment through strategic connections to mission and encouraging employee-driven career growth. Additionally, he offers insight on combating burnout by aligning work with purpose, showcasing that understanding these fundamentals can create high-performing teams.
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Three Timeless Employee Needs
- People consistently want three things from work: to get along, get ahead, and find meaning.
- Anchoring leadership on these needs produces engaged, high-performing teams.
Frame Work Within The Mission
- Hold a regular meeting cadence and explain how each person’s work ties to the organization’s mission.
- Use storytelling and framing so even small tasks connect to a larger purpose.
Janitor At NASA Believed He Helped Send A Man To The Moon
- JP retells the NASA janitor story to show meaning can come from connecting tasks to mission.
- Even small or back-office roles feel meaningful when tied to a clear organizational purpose.
