In the ever-evolving landscape of workplace culture, industries all over the world are constantly seeking innovative approaches to foster environments where employees can thrive.

As Head of People & Growth at Laing+Simmons, this search occupies much of my time and mindset. It’s what motivates me. It was with considerable surprise, then, for the US Army to serve as an inspiration.

Culture is not a visible thing. It can’t be seen or touched but it certainly is felt. I recently had dinner with US Army personnel and was astounded that these two soldiers, having only known one another for 40 days, had a distinct culture and bond that I could clearly see.

The kind of brotherly bond you see in the movies, only across the table from me. I was curious how this had been established.

The US Army places a profound emphasis on its “people-first” approach. It might seem worlds away from the real estate industry here in Australia. But there are

invaluable lessons we can learn from the military’s commitment to nurturing a culture of support, empowerment and excellence.

It begins with recognising that the strength of any organisation lies in its people. This ethos runs through every facet of the Army’s operation, from recruitment and training to day-to-day leadership practices.

Central to the people-first approach is the notion that prioritising the well-being, growth and development of individuals ultimately translates into enhanced organisational performance and mission success.

Translating the lessons:

Empowerment through leadership

In the US Army, leadership is not merely about giving orders. It's about empowering individuals to take ownership of their roles and contribute meaningfully to the collective mission.

Similarly, real estate leaders can foster a culture of empowerment by providing their people with the autonomy, resources and support they need to excel.

Encouraging innovation, fostering open communication, and recognising individual contributions are essential components of this approach.

Investment in training and development

The US Army places a premium on continuous learning and professional development, recognising that well-trained personnel are better equipped to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

Likewise, the real estate industry can benefit from prioritising ongoing training programs, mentorship initiatives, and career growth opportunities.

By investing in enhancing the growth and skills of its workforce, the industry can cultivate a culture of excellence and adaptability, to improve retention.

Focus on well-being and resilience

In the high-stakes environment of the military, the well-being and resilience of personnel are paramount. This involves not only physical fitness but also mental health support, stress management resources, and community-building initiatives.

Similarly, the real estate industry can foster a culture of well-being by prioritising work-life balance, offering wellness programs, and promoting a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Recognising the holistic needs of employees not only enhances morale and productivity, it also fosters loyalty and retention.

If we take a thoughtful and integrated approach to implementing these principles, our industry can remain resilient in the face of change and pave the way for both people and profits to thrive in harmony.