The following article was published in Human Resources, a Portuguese people management media outlet. It was written by our Business Manager, Maria Albuquerque.

‍

The industrial sector is constantly evolving on a global scale, driven by technological advancements, new regulations, and a growing focus on sustainability and environmental impact. The level of demand is increasing due to the need to deliver tangible results based on numbers, processes, and deadlines. While these indicators are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of a project, a key element is often overlooked: the people who make things happen.

A significant part of our time is dedicated to professional activities, colleagues, leadership, and everything that constitutes the work environment. More and more, we find ourselves in a society filled with socio-emotional challenges, where our physical and mental well-being is at risk due to the demands and needs within organizations. That is why, now more than ever, it is evident that we need a new way of acting—one that prioritizes proximity, empathy, and human development, putting people at the center of our decisions and actions.

When we talk about proximity, we cannot simply consider it as periodic conversations or performance feedback. Rather, it should be an open and transparent communication dynamic, based on active listening, where there is space for everyone to have a voice. This fosters the creation of an environment where people feel comfortable sharing successes, failures, and, most importantly, their thoughts and emotions. Equally important is maintaining clear and assertive communication with our partners, built on long-term relationships that prioritize knowledge sharing, common goals, and, above all, commitment.

By adopting this approach, we are increasing our ability to better understand the needs of our teams and partners, aligning expectations, and strengthening relationships based on mutual trust.

In an industry marked by successive technological innovations and new market demands, human development becomes a fundamental pillar. This includes cultivating both technical and socio-emotional skills, such as communication, leadership, and resilience—essential for a successful organizational culture.

By empowering our teams in these two areas, we are not just shaping better professionals or individuals; we are creating motivated, valued, and, above all, fulfilled people with a greater capacity to turn daily challenges into opportunities.

Since launching a new brand, I have experienced firsthand the challenges inherent in this commitment to people. We have realized that more than just positioning, effective communication, empathy, and trust are critical factors for retaining and motivating our employees. Engaging with them and our partners has allowed us to identify their real needs and adjust our strategies more effectively. It is evident that an approach based on active listening and continuous follow-up generates a positive impact not only on productivity but also on employee well-being.

We cannot overlook the impact that the industry has on those who make it happen. Adopting an approach based on proximity, humanity, and individual development is not just a trend—it is a necessity. By grounding ourselves in this philosophy, we are enhancing our ability to face today’s challenges and build the future of tomorrow.

‍