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Engaging Introduction

In an age of constant change and digital overload, one critical need often goes unmet: employees’ sense that they truly matter. The Power of Mattering by Zach Mercurio shows that when people feel seen, heard, and indispensable, organizations unlock higher engagement, lower turnover, and stronger performance.

Main Body

1. The Hidden Cost of “Not Mattering”

Research reveals a growing epidemic of workplace insignificance, which fuels disengagement, loneliness, and mental-health challenges. When employees believe their contributions go unnoticed, organizational culture and productivity suffer in equal measure.

2. The Noticing–Affirming–Needing Framework

Mercurio distills his practical insights into three daily leadership practices:

  • Noticing: Intentionally seeing and listening to individuals, acknowledging their ideas and concerns.
  • Affirming: Demonstrating how each person’s unique strengths and efforts create real impact.
  • Needing: Conveying that every team member is relied upon and indispensable to shared goals.

3. Actionable Strategies for Leaders

  • Weekly “Spotlight” Check-Ins: Dedicate 10 minutes per direct report to discuss achievements and challenges.
  • Public Recognition Rituals: Share specific examples of individual contributions in team meetings or newsletters.
  • Role Ownership: Assign critical tasks that underscore each person’s indispensability, reinforcing their “need” in the workflow.

Implementing these simple yet powerful practices can transform your culture into one where people feel a genuine sense of significance—and where innovation and loyalty naturally follow.

Personal Recommendation

As a leadership practitioner focused on organizational culture and employee engagement, I’ve seen firsthand how small, consistent gestures of recognition drive big results. The Power of Mattering equips managers at all levels with a clear, research-backed roadmap to make every team member feel valued and motivated. Whether you’re a new supervisor or a seasoned executive, this book offers tools you can apply immediately to foster a high-trust, high-performance culture.

Call to Action

Ready to build a culture where everyone feels they truly matter? Click below to get your copy and start transforming your leadership today:

Buy The Power of Mattering on Amazon
Harvard Business Review Press, May 13 2025; 272 pages; ISBN 979-8892790123