As human beings, we naturally seek a sense of purpose. Our identities are shaped by the roles we play—siblings, parents, friends, teammates. Work is no different. For many of us, how we earn a living is more than just a job; it is a big part of who we are. We spend much of our lives working—so it is only fair to expect something meaningful in return.
In Jennifer’s recent TEDx talk, she shared the story of her grandfather, who spent his life working for a company and was given a clock when he retired. A symbolic gesture, sure—but he never really spoke about his work. What would have made that job memorable? What would have made him proud to talk about it? What if he had felt connected to what he helped build?
Today, work is shifting. Millennials and Gen Z—who now make up the majority of the workforce—are asking better questions. They are not just looking for a steady paycheque; they want flexibility, meaningful work, and companies that take a stand on social and environmental issues. Most of all, they want to matter. They want to see their values reflected in their workplace. They want to know their work has a purpose.
That is where employee ownership comes in. When you have a real stake in the business you work for, your contributions start to mean more. You are not just clocking in and out—you are helping shape the direction and future of the company. You are building something, together with your colleagues. You are part of a shared goal, with real rewards.
Think back to the worst job you ever had—the one that drained you. For me, it was the jobs where I did not feel like my contributions were valued. It is rarely about the actual work—it is about the environment and the people. Now compare that to a time when your input was valued, when your efforts made a difference. I feel that every day as part of an employee owned company. That sense of purpose makes all the difference. When employees have ownership, it changes everything. The energy, the trust, the accountability—it is a completely different atmosphere. And frankly, it is what more of us should be demanding.
Employee ownership is about more than profit-sharing. It is about being seen. It is about knowing that your work has weight—that the time and energy you pour in is building something you are a part of. It is about creating workplaces where people do not just survive, but thrive with intention and pride.
So if you are looking for more from your work, start asking: Do I have a real stake in where I spend most of my life? Am I helping build something that belongs to all of us—not just the few at the top?
It is not too much to expect purpose at work.
Curious About Bringing Employee Ownership to Your Workplace?
Employee ownership is gaining momentum in Canada as a proven strategy for employee retention, workplace engagement, and succession planning. Often, it starts with someone asking the right questions. If you want to learn how to introduce employee ownership in your firm, we have tools, stories, and resources to help you start the conversation.
Contact us today to explore how employee ownership can transform your workplace culture and build a stronger future for your company and your people.
