Message of the Week 23 - 27 October 2023

Unlocking the Power of Working for the Greater Good

In the world of business, targets and numbers often reign supreme. As we chase our individual goals, it's easy to forget the extraordinary strength that comes from working for the greater good. An attitude of fostering unity and building a stronger business together goes beyond sales figures and profit margins and ultimately achieves success that extends far beyond personal gain.

Harvard Business Review (HBR) often reminds us of the profound impact that a collective sense of purpose can have on an organisation. Their research has shown that companies with a strong sense of purpose consistently outperform their counterparts. When a team is aligned towards a common goal, they become a force to be reckoned with. 

Forbes, another esteemed publication, reinforces the idea that businesses that work with a sense of purpose are more likely to attract and retain top talent. This means not only are we more likely to excel as a team, but we're also in the best position to bring in the best people to help us reach new heights. 

But it's not just about what these actions bring to the bottom line. It's about the culture it builds within our Kyocera family and the impact it has on our partners, clients and the broader community. 

Working for the greater good isn't just a nice thing to do, it is deep-seated values, it is a mindset, or, in our case, it is Kyocera’s management philosophy, and it is essential for our long-term success. It creates a legacy that extends beyond the balance sheet. 

Here at Kyocera, we are not just salespeople chasing quotas; we are partners in a larger mission. Our success is not just about the numbers we achieve individually, it's about the shared vision of improving businesses and lives through innovative solutions. Kyocera’s philosophy mentions the commitment to its “Management by All” philosophy which encourages every team member to voice their opinions, express concerns, and actively participate in the decision-making process. This inclusive spirit ensures that everyone is involved, encouraging widespread participation rather than limiting decision-making to just a select few.

My call to action is this: As we approach the end of the year, let's align ourselves with the greater good. Let's work for a purpose that transcends our daily targets and let’s strive for a stronger business, not just in financial terms, but in terms of the positive impact we create on each other, in our businesses and the world. 

To borrow from the wisdom of Helen Keller, "Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much."

Paul Wendlandt - General Manager - KYOCERA Document Solutions South Africa