Why Mattering Matters
Mattering is fuel. People thrive when they feel they matter. When they don’t, they withdraw, disengage, and disappear.
“To someone who doesn’t believe they matter, it’s hard for anything to matter.” —Zach Mercurio
Our need to matter is human. We search for significance, from infancy to death. At work, mattering impacts motivation, loyalty, and well-being. It doesn’t come from perks, programs, or paychecks.
“The experience of mattering happens through interpersonal interactions, not through programs or perks.” —Zach Mercurio
If you want people to care about their work, show them they matter.
3 Ways to Create Mattering at Work
#1. Notice People
What it means: See and hear others deeply.
“Seeing others is acknowledging them and paying attention to the details, ebbs, and flows of their lives and work.” —Zach Mercurio
- Greet people by name.
- Ask follow-up questions about something they shared last week.
- Make eye contact. Hide your phone.
- Say, “I noticed you stayed late yesterday. Everything okay?”
#2. Affirm Their Contribution
What it means: Show people how they make a difference.
“People feel valued when they’re fully seen, heard, and understood. They experience adding value when they see the unique difference they make and feel needed.” —Zach Mercurio
- Connect effort to impact: “Because you solved that issue, we saved a client relationship.”
- Say thank you—specifically and often.
- Share compliments you’ve heard behind their back.
#3. Show That They’re Needed
What it means: Show people they’re essential.
- Say, “This team wouldn’t be the same without you.”
- Ask for their input: “What would you do in my place?”
- Let them teach others what they’re great at.
Final Thought:
You don’t have to change the system to energize a person. Start by noticing, affirming, and needing someone today.
“It’s easy to tell people they matter. But it takes intention and skill to show them how they matter.” —Zach Mercurio
How could you show someone they matter today?
This post is based on the work of Zack Mercurio and his new book The Power of Mattering.
This is so profoundly true, in the 90’s
working in a family-owned company, my immediate boss, who handled a critical account, had a heart attack, rendering him unavailable for several weeks. The owner called, saying, “I need you to step in here today, and I need your best work – I’m confident in your ability to manage this.”
Everything changed.
I love your story, Ken. We rise up when someone believes in us. “I believe in you,” is more powerful than, “I’m worried.” Thanks for sharing.
Great thoughts today, Dan. People don’t care how much you know til they know you care.
I appreciate the good word, J. Cheers
“People thrive when they feel they matter. When they don’t, they withdraw, disengage, and disappear.” This is so powerful – what a quote!!! This should posted on the desk of every leader in America.
Thank you, Travis. I appreciate you dropping in today. Best
“It’s easy to tell people they matter. But it takes intention and skill to show them how they matter.” —Zach Mercurio. This is a good way to end a good post. If you just say “you matter” or “you are doing good” without any reference to why they matter and what they are doing good, it may come off as insincere blathering and may confirm thoughts they might have had that their work and presence is not noticed. Love your insights Dan!