8 Proven Strategies to Create a Meaningful Work Culture

The Next Big Idea Club featured an excerpt from Why Are We Here?: Creating a Work Culture Everyone Wants by Jennifer Moss, a journalist and expert on workplace well-being. Jennifer argues that improving work culture doesn't require sweeping reforms; rather, small, strategic shifts in leadership and organizational values can significantly enhance employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention. Her central thesis is that making work more meaningful, humane, and engaging is not only ethical—it’s a smart business strategy.

Jennifer begins by addressing the widespread existential anxiety permeating today’s workforce, caused by overlapping crises—climate change, political instability, AI disruptions, and the aftermath of COVID-19. This "polycrisis" has triggered a "hope crisis," eroding people's faith in work’s value. She argues that traditional motivational strategies no longer suffice; instead, leaders must foster hope, which builds resilience, energizes problem-solving, and strengthens teams.

She highlights purpose as essential, citing research showing that employees who find meaning in their work are far more loyal and engaged. Similarly, community is crucial; loneliness harms mental health and productivity, while strong workplace relationships dramatically boost performance. Jennifer also advocates for compassionate leadership to address AI-related job fears and other anxieties.

Flexibility, she says, should be treated as a right, not a perk, noting that resistance to remote work undermines employee trust. She stresses the need for openness across generations to unlock innovation and counter workplace ageism, and proposes reframing DEI efforts around belonging, emphasizing systemic inclusion over checkbox programs. Finally, she calls for better recognition, especially for women, who remain underrepresented in leadership despite strong evidence of their positive impact.

Jennifer concludes that while work may feel broken, it can be fixed. Simple, intentional leadership actions can rebuild connection, meaning, and optimism—ultimately creating workplaces where people genuinely want to be.