Beware of Fakes: Why Trophy Culture in Business Can be a Farce

I'm sure you've heard this before, but I want to remind you that not all that glitters is gold. There's an insidious game being played in the world of business filled with glittery awards and shiny plaques that scream "Look at us! We've made it!" But if we're going to be honest, not everything is always as it seems.

Now don't get me wrong, striving for success and achievements is a fantastic thing- it's in my DNA. My own company has won many awards that I am very proud of and grateful for. But remember something: not all awards are created equal. And just because a company has one, doesn't mean they truly earned it.

It's time to blow the lid off this awards charade, where seemingly every organization has a "world's best" or "most admired" sticker slapped on their front door. Let me tell you something, folks: too many of these awards are bought, not earned. Let's say it louder for the ones in denial at the back: the awards game is a rigged carnival, and the prizes are often not worth the paper they're printed on.

Try not to be convinced by the companies boasting titles like 'Best Workplace' while they hemorrhage money as if it were a pastime. But instead, dig beneath that glossy veneer and you'll discover the truth-these places are deserts of innovation and oases of stress.

I've delivered many keynotes on the subject in which people have reached out to recount their experiences of escaping the clutches of these "fantastic" workplaces. They share tales of burnout, or 'stress leave' as a regular calendar entry. And don't get me started on the back-patting ceremonies where everyone claps for survival masquerading as success.

For all of you ambitious individuals out there seeking to improve not just your lives but the ecosystem of your work environment: don't swallow the awards spiel. Don't become starry-eyed by these distractions. It's time to redefine success on terms that actually mean something- like real profit, genuine wellbeing, and sustainable growth.

You want to be a part of a company that's thriving, not just surviving- right? Forge greatness by building a business that is profitable, healthy, and enriches lives, not one that Neds a trophy to validate its worth.

Let the echo chamber of hollow praise fade away; your focus should be on creating a culture that stands the test of time and turmoil. Remember: it's not the awards that will save you- it's the resilience, innovation, and the grit of the people.

It's really important to be aware of what a company stands for. What their values and company culture really looks like. The last thing you want to do is dive into a company for the wrong reasons. My advice? Ask yourself these following questions before taking on a new job. And, if this is your own company and you want to lead a successful business, one where your staff Is truly happy and productive, these questions still apply: 

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1. What makes this company great?
2. Does the leadership team align with who I am?
3. What is this companies mission statement?
4. When things go astray, what actions does this company take to course correct?
5. What are 3 reasons I should join this company?
6. What is something I could always count on from this company?
7. What are 3 words to describe this company? 
8. What are 2-3 things that this company is not?
9. If money wasn't important to you, what would I do as a career?
10. What keeps me at your current Role?

Respond to these questions honestly and openly. If you can't find the answer to some, that may be an answer within itself.

So, get out there! Lead with heart, drive and purpose. Build a culture worthy of admiration-not for its shiny awards, but for its undying spirit. Be a warrior in the workplace, fight the facade, and build a business that truly deserves a standing ovation.