WORLD'S MOST ADMIRED COMPANIES       EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT      LEADERSHIP      GOOGLE       SONY       FEDEX

Singapore – A secret to being one of the world’s most admired companies (WMAC) is to be aware when employees are no longer inspired or are getting bored with their jobs.

At Google, which was ranked second in FORTUNE magazine’s WMAC list, leaders are aware when their employees are no longer excited about their work as it can affect morale and productivity in the office.

Sarah Robb, head of people operations for general and administration at Google in Asia Pacific (APAC), said leaders have to keep employees energised by helping them realise the impact their work has on the company. “The one thing more than anything else that has kept me at Google is feeling valued.”

Robb added that allowing employees to navigate their own career and work towards creating their personal impact gives them more ownership and satisfaction.

Speaking at Hay Group’s presentation of Fortune magazine’s 14th annual WMAC awards today, Robb said another important aspect in getting the best out of employees is by making them feel appreciated. “What we’re trying to foster at Google is a culture where you speak up if it’s not going the way you thought or if you think there’s a way to make it better.”

Narihiko Uemura, managing director (MD) for Sony Electronics in Singapore and APAC, prides himself on hosting lunches with his employees to “hear the real voice” and get firsthand feedback on his plans for the company. The electronic manufacturer was ranked the fifth most admired employer in APAC.

“When I came to the Singapore office two years ago, I decided I’ll talk to everybody. The interesting thing is that everyone is very willing and happy to talk to me,” Uemura said.

“By the way, their managers are not allowed to join,” Uemura shared candidly, adding that he has separate lunches with them.

Through these lunches, Uemura has been able to find out if policies are communicated effectively to all levels of the organisation, and even build personal relationships with his staff.

Clifton Chua, MD for FedEx in Singapore, added that branding was another important factor towards becoming an employee of choice. He said a strong employer brand not only helps retain top talent but also attract the very best that are available in the market. “A strong brand makes it easier to get candidates walk in through the door.”

This is because potential employees recognise the organisation is willing to provide training and development opportunities, along with possible international exposure, Chua said. FedEx was named eighth on the global WMAC list.

Robb said, “As Gen Ys are interested in many opportunities, they tend to want to be connected to a brand that means something to them.”

Toyota was the most admired company in Asia this year, followed by Samsung and Singapore Airlines (SIA).

SIA was also the only local company to make it to the top 20 global list, climbing nine spots from last year’s ranking of 27 to 18.

Apple was named the top most admired company globally for the second year running.

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