Put Your People First

According to Ryan Estis, 80% of workers feel more anxiety and stress now than they did before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Estis, a former Chief Strategy Officer for the McCann Worldgroup marketing agency, is now a speaker, coach and researcher and understands that human connection is the foundation for all businesses. He helps leaders help their employees beat burnout and avoid feelings of stress and anxiety altogether.

On this week’s episode of the Start With a Win podcast, Estis joins RE/MAX Holdings CEO Adam Contos to share tips for leaders on boosting employee well-being – and, in turn, boosting productivity.

“For the first time really, organizations are having to step into the middle of this long-tail mental health crisis and provide support and [resources],” he says. “And, it’s creating a call to action for leaders to get more engaged and involved with this issue.”

As people are reconsidering their relationship with work, he emphasizes the increased need for employers to connect with employees on an individual level and increase mental health resources on a companywide level.

“My mantra is ‘Put people first,'” Estis says. “Performance and profitability will follow. And if you don’t, you’re going to see a performance impact.”

He suggests leaders work on building high-trust relationships with employees and explore their aspirations to help them unlock their potential.

In order to effectively guide others, however, leaders can’t pour from an empty cup. Estis explains that the practice of mindfulness has helped him become a more effective leader and become more intentional in work and life.

“Successful people – and especially leaders – become self-aware,” he says.

Tune in to this week’s podcast episode to hear more wisdom and applicable tips from Estis.

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