Empowerment (n.): the process of gaining freedom and power to do what you want or to control what happens to you [Cambridge Dictionary] AND the flowers in this photo [me]. 

It’s easy to find various definitions of empowerment with a simple internet search, and in the world of leadership and organizational culture it can seemingly be a complex principle to navigate. But, is it really that difficult to create an environment where your employees are empowered? What does empowerment even look like?

Here’s an example…

For anyone who likes creamer in their coffee, I’m sure this will resonate. You’re ready for your morning cup o’ joe and “UGH!”, you’re out of your favorite creamer, and not a single thing in your fridge will even come close to taking its place. 

That was me early this morning. After calculating which was closest during this time of desperation, the neighborhood supermarket or the local barista, I opted for the market. My rationale…it’ll be quicker for me to run in, use the self-checkout (there’s no way I was making eye contact with anyone this early), and be on my way.

Then, there it was as I was trying to check out – the hideous you-have-an-unexpected-item-in-the-bagging-area alarm. “Seriously?!,” I said under my breath. As I looked around for help, breaking a pact with my introverted self to avoid any eye contact, I was in dire need of customer service. 

After a few seconds, a clerk arrived and could clearly see my level of frustration. He overrode the error and sincerely apologized, quickly turned on his heels toward the floral display, and handed me these flowers with a simple, “I hope they brighten your day.” 

That, folks, is an empowered employee!