Invest in culture & happiness, unlock performance.
Culture isn’t a nice to have – it’s your competitive edge.
In construction, we wouldn’t dream of using 100-year-old safety standards or equipment specifications. Yet many of us are still using management practices from that era.
The business case is stark:
Gallup estimates that poor management and disengaged employees cost the global economy $8.8 trillion annually – 9% of global GDP. In construction, where margins are tight and skilled labour is scarce, we simply can’t afford this waste.
The data tells a clear story:
- Happy salespeople produce 37% greater sales
- Engaged teams generate 21% more profit
- Positive mindset improves decision-making speed and accuracy
Here’s the strategic shift:
Most boards focus on: Productivity → Success → Happiness
But neuroscience shows the actual path is: Happiness → Productivity → Success
When people feel valued and engaged, dopamine and serotonin improve brain function and energy levels. It’s not about being “nice” – it’s about unlocking performance that’s currently sitting dormant on your balance sheet.
The timing matters:
Construction is facing a perfect storm – skills shortages, rising costs, increased ESG scrutiny. According to research, 73% of employees leave jobs due to culture. Every departure costs you recruitment fees, project delays, and institutional knowledge.
The companies that crack culture now will have a significant competitive advantage in attracting and retaining the talent that drives project delivery.
Chapter 1 of Cracking Culture explores why this shift is essential and how to build the business case for your board.
