TED Talks Daily
The case for good jobs — and why they're good for business too | Zeynep Ton
Aug 30, 2024
Join Zeynep Ton, an MIT management professor passionate about enhancing job quality, as she tackles the pressing need for better wages and working conditions for essential workers. She eloquently discusses how investing in good jobs not only uplifts employees but also boosts company performance, citing successful examples like Costco. Ton advocates for recognizing low-wage jobs as dignified and valuable, emphasizing that happier workers lead to enhanced productivity. Her insights challenge the status quo, showcasing a pathway where both people and businesses thrive.
15:09
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Quick takeaways
- Elevating essential jobs through livable wages and growth opportunities significantly enhances worker dignity and overall societal function.
- Investing in employee welfare, as shown by successful companies like Costco, results in lower turnover and higher productivity, benefiting business outcomes.
Deep dives
The Value of Essential Work
Many roles deemed essential, such as cleaning and caregiving, are often undervalued, despite being crucial for society's functioning. These jobs are less likely to be automated, yet they frequently pay unlivable wages, trapping workers in poverty and diminishing their dignity. For instance, a retail manager named Janet juggles inadequate pay and fluctuating schedules, making it difficult to provide for her family and fulfill her job responsibilities effectively. This situation highlights the dire need to improve conditions rather than eliminate these jobs, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing essential work.
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