The 10 commandments for the future of work

A manifesto for leaders who want their people to thrive — not just survive. Based on my “Making work work, Why you should prioritise your staff, 25 books covering engagement, structure, metrics, purpose, trends and strategy”.

1. Thou Shalt Prioritise People Over Process

Work is for humans — not the other way around. People are not resources, assets, or headcount. Design systems that serve people, not the other way around.

2. Thou Shalt Make Health and Wellbeing a Core KPI

If your workplace is making people sick, it’s broken. Wellbeing isn’t a perk — it’s a performance driver, a retention strategy, and a moral obligation.

3. Thou Shalt Embrace Radical Transparency

Secrets, silos, and power hoarding destroy trust. Share information widely, openly, and continuously. Transparency builds alignment and loyalty.

4. Thou Shalt Treat Employees Like Adults

Micromanagement is management malpractice. Give people autonomy, flexibility, and trust — and expect accountability in return.

5. Thou Shalt Optimise for Outcomes, Not Hours

Time in a seat is not value. Results are. Judge performance on outcomes, not optics. The future is results-only…