July 3, 2025
I recently came across some sobering statistics from Gallup:
- Only 31% of U.S. workers say they’re engaged at work—the lowest in more than a decade.
- Just 46% clearly understand what’s expected of them.
- And 29% feel someone genuinely cares about them at work.
Let that sink in.
This isn’t just a general workforce issue; it’s a culture crisis. And for manufacturing, it hits even harder. We’re already facing a shrinking labor pool, rising job vacancies, and the steady exit of experienced workers. Younger talent, meanwhile, is quicker to jump ship if the environment doesn’t offer growth, purpose, or connection.
Here’s the kicker: We’ve long been laser-focused on maintaining machines and optimizing production. But we’ve dropped the ball on maintaining our most valuable asset—our people.
As leaders, we can’t afford to ignore culture. We must own it. Yes, competitive wages and solid benefits matter—but those are just the entry fees. What sets companies apart in today’s labor market is the quality of the environment we build and protect every day.
Here’s one simple tool to help you lead that effort, especially when your team is stretched thin. It’s called CAR:
- Connect. Every day, take five minutes to connect with someone on your team. Ask about their day. Listen—really listen. You don’t need to fix anything. Just be present. Most people are heard but not seen. That small moment will stick.
- Appreciate. Show appreciation—genuinely and specifically. Say thank you. Tell someone how their work moves the needle. It’s free, it’s fast, and it builds the kind of loyalty money can’t buy.
- Recognize and reinforce. When someone gets it right, call it out. Reinforce the behaviors you want more of. We’re quick to flag problems, but the best leaders double down on the wins. That’s how you shape culture in real time.
CAR is especially effective during tough stretches—when you’re short on people, time, or both. It gives your team the clarity, connection, and encouragement they need to stay motivated and keep moving forward.
CAR takes energy and intention, no doubt. But it’s energy well spent. Want to stay accountable? Build a simple scorecard and track how often you hit the CAR marks. You’ll be surprised how quickly the payoff builds team morale, engagement, and retention.
Want to build a workforce that’s loyal, productive, and proud to work for you? Start with the one factor you control every day: culture.
Matt Eichmann is founder of Catalyst Point Leadership Advisors. He can be reached at 614-512-2940 or matt@catalyst-point.com.
