HCI Webinar Recap: How Today's and Future Leaders Can Integrate Human Sustainability Practices, with Jan Barlow

In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Jan Barlow about how today's and future leaders can integrate human sustainability practices. Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!

Watch the episode here:

Quick Recap

Jonathan and Jan discussed the transition from conceptual to action-oriented social impact work, focusing on human sustainability practices and Better Job Fit's mission to empower individuals and businesses for growth with purpose. They explored the importance of recognizing and utilizing individual potential, treating people with dignity, and adopting a holistic approach to human, social, and economic sustainability through partnerships between nonprofits, for-profits, and municipalities. The conversation emphasized the need to start small, focus on one's immediate sphere of influence, and maximize employees' gifts and talents to create a cycle of fulfillment and sustainability within organizations.

Transitioning to Action-Oriented Social Impact

Jonathan and Jan discussed the transition from conceptual to action-oriented social impact work, focusing on human sustainability practices. Jan, founder of the nonprofit Better Job Fit, shared her background and the organization's mission to empower individuals and businesses for growth with purpose. They also highlighted their support for transitioning business owners through the 10 stages of business growth.

Human Sustainability in Leadership

Jonathan and Jan discussed the importance of human sustainability and regenerative work in leadership. They emphasized the need to recognize and utilize the potential of individuals, rather than just focusing on job descriptions. They also highlighted the importance of treating people with dignity and respect, and not falling into exploitative practices. Jan introduced the concept of finite and infinite mindsets, suggesting that leaders need to be educated to recognize the difference between the two. They concluded by discussing the challenges of making sustainable positive change in organizations and society, and the need to put conceptual ideas into practice.

Nonprofit Job Matching and Sustainability Model

Jan discussed the company's early partnership with nonprofits and job matching services. The company created a model that combines nonprofits, for-profits, and municipalities to create a holistic approach to human, social, and economic sustainability. This model was designed to make nonprofits a recruiting source for companies that donate to them. The company also conducts social impact workshops and conferences to bring together various stakeholders and create sustainable engagement sessions.

Starting Small for Sustainable Impact

Jonathan and Jan discussed the importance of starting small and focusing on one's immediate sphere of influence. Jonathan emphasized the need to tackle manageable problems before attempting to solve larger, more complex issues. Jan agreed, noting that starting with the human side of sustainability can lead to significant impact. They also discussed the importance of understanding and utilizing the full potential of individuals within an organization.

Maximizing Employee Gifts and Talents

Jonathan and Jan discussed the importance of maximizing the gifts and talents of employees to create a holistic cycle of fulfillment and sustainability. Jan emphasized that it's the employer's or leader's responsibility to find out what each person's gifts and talents are and leverage them to the fullest. They also discussed the need for a mindset shift in how companies approach employee retention and utilization of lived experiences.

Listen to the webinar here: