More and more CEOs are taking notes from the show Undercover Boss as they shed their suits and experience, first-hand, what it’s like working for the companies they manage
Driving the news: Executives are working the occasional shift at their companies to get a better sense of the problems employees face and snuff out inefficiencies, per AP News.
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Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan works a half-shift every month as a barista.
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Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi completed over 100 rides and deliveries last year.
- And, while it’s not really work, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky stays at listings monthly.
While several companies require corporate employees to work shifts as part of their training, DoorDash goes a step further by requiring salaried workers to make at least four deliveries a year.
Why it matters: Executives dabbling on the frontlines can lead to sweeping changes—when the people in charge experience problems firsthand, they’re extra motivated to fix them.
- For example, DoorDash now gives drivers more control and consistency with how they get paid, by offering the choice between being paid a minimum wage or per delivery.
Yes, but: CEOs have faced accusations of performatively working to seem like they’re connecting with workers, while actively fighting against their best interests back at HQ.
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While Starbucks’ CEO is whipping up frappés during happy hour, his company is devising ways to crush unionization drives.
- And when they’re not shuttling Popeye’s orders, DoorDash management is fighting against laws that would secure higher pay for gig workers.
Bottom line: Trust between employers and employees is slowly eroding. Initiatives to meaningfully bridge the gap between both sides could grow increasingly important.—QH