In a world where data-driven decision-making dominates, leaders from Rare Beauty and Calm remind us of the significance of human connection. During Fast Company’s recent Impact Council meeting, Elyse Cohen of Rare Beauty and David Ko of Calm discussed the critical role authentic interactions play in fostering a thriving company culture, especially in today’s tech-savvy landscape.
Data-driven human connection
While Calm integrates AI into its offerings, the aim is to enhance user experience and accessibility without losing the human touch. David Ko emphasises a “human-centred AI” approach that prioritises the wellbeing of users on their mental health journeys. In contrast, Elyse Cohen relies more on genuine customer feedback, driven by the brand’s foundational commitment to mental health advocacy.
Letting Gen Z lead
The insights they gather often come from engaging with younger generations who value transparency and advocacy in the workplace. This shift opens up conversations about mental health, breaking down barriers that once existed in corporate environments. Cohen highlights the importance of understanding the “whole person” and fostering open dialogue about personal experiences.
Making mental health conversations company-wide
Creating a culture where vulnerability is encouraged cultivates trust and strengthens community ties. Both Cohen and Ko stress that dialogues about mental health must be pervasive throughout the organisation, supported by leadership. Personal experiences shared by leaders can set a tone that resonates with employees, ultimately shaping company culture.
Key Points
- Leaders at Rare Beauty and Calm stress the importance of prioritising human connections over solely data-driven approaches.
- Calm uses AI not just for efficiency but to enhance accessibility and user comfort in mental health services.
- Community engagement and customer feedback are core to Rare Beauty’s operations, fostering a supportive environment.
- Younger generations are leading the push for openness about mental health within the workplace.
- Effective mental health conversations must be organisation-wide and initiated by leadership to foster a supportive culture.
Why should I read this?
This article is a must-read for anyone interested in how effective leadership entails building genuine connections. It showcases real-life examples from two impactful companies that navigate the balance between technology and human touch. If you’re keen to understand how to create a supportive workplace that prioritises mental well-being, this read will save you time and inspire your leadership approach.