We’ve all grown up with the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It’s a simple, well-meaning guideline for treating others kindly. But when it comes to leadership, this rule might not be as effective as it seems. The Golden Rule assumes that everyone wants to be treated the same way you do. However, people have different needs, preferences, and motivations.

The Platinum Rule

The Platinum Rule takes a different approach: “Treat others the way they want to be treated.” This shift in focus from your own preferences to those of others can make a significant difference in how you lead and connect with your team. Understanding what each employee values and tailoring your interactions accordingly can lead to better relationships, higher job satisfaction, and more effective leadership.

Understanding Employee Needs: The Five Languages of Appreciation

To lead effectively with the Platinum Rule, it’s important to understand what drives and motivates each of your employees. In his book, The Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace, Gary Chapman outlines different ways people feel appreciated. By recognizing these languages, you can better connect with your team:

Words of Affirmation: Some employees thrive on verbal recognition. A simple thank you, a note, or a conversation acknowledging their hard work can go a long way.
Quality Time: Others value spending time with their leader. Regular one-on-one meetings, team-building activities, or simply listening to their concerns can make them feel valued.
Acts of Service: For some, actions speak louder than words. Helping out with a task or offering assistance shows that you care about their workload and well-being.
Tangible Gifts: Small, thoughtful gifts can make an employee feel appreciated. Whether it’s their favorite coffee or a small token of recognition, these gestures can have a big impact.
Physical Touch: A congratulatory handshake or pat on the back can convey appreciation, but it’s important to be mindful of personal boundaries and preferences.

The Gap Between Perception and Reality

It’s easy to assume that you’re doing a good job of recognizing your employees, but the reality might be different. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that while 51% of supervisors believe they recognize their employees well, only 17% of employees feel the same way. This gap highlights the importance of understanding and speaking your employees’ appreciation language.

Universal Needs

Beyond individual preferences, all employees share certain fundamental needs. Two of the most important are opportunities for growth and strong communication.

Growth Opportunities: Everyone wants to feel challenged and see their skills recognized. Assigning meaningful, challenging tasks shows that you trust and value your employees’ abilities. It also helps keep them engaged and motivated.
Open Communication: Great leaders are great communicators. This doesn’t mean they talk the most; it means they connect with their team in a way that resonates. Open, frequent communication builds trust and prevents misunderstandings, helping employees feel involved and informed.

Lead with Empathy

The Platinum Rule is about understanding and meeting people where they are. By treating others the way they want to be treated, you can create a more supportive, engaging, and productive work environment. As a leader, this approach not only helps you connect with your team but also fosters a culture of respect and understanding.

Great People, Great Careers

At Continental Search, we believe in connecting great people with great careers. With a network of over 10,000 industry experts in animal health and sciences and live production and processing, we offer valuable insights and career opportunities to professionals, while helping employers find the skilled candidates they need. Ready to advance your career or build your team? Let’s work together. Contact us today to learn more about what makes Continental Search different.

Reference: Schmidt, Karen. “Is the Golden Rule Selfish” SRA Update

About the Author

Trish Valenzuela is the Practice Director for Monogastric Health & Nutrition at Continental Search. She joined the team in 2015. With her knack for building relationships and a deep understanding of the industry, she has successfully led recruitment efforts for roles within the US, Canada, and Asia.

Trish makes sure to understand what each company needs in a candidate and works closely with them to find the perfect match. She loves learning new things, enjoys going to trade shows, and catching up with folks she’s worked with to keep learning and growing in her field. You can connect with her on LinkedIn or drop her an email at trish@continentalsearch.com.