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  • January–February 2018
  • Article
  • Harvard Business Review

More than a Paycheck: How to Create Good Blue-Collar Jobs in the Knowledge Economy

By: Dennis Campbell, John Case and Bill Fotsch
  • Format:Print
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Abstract

Fifty years ago a good blue-collar job was with a large manufacturer such as General Motors or Goodyear. Often unionized, it paid well, offered benefits, and was secure. But manufacturing employment has steadily declined, from about 25% of the U.S. labor force in 1970 to less than 10% today. Now a decent living entails more than a generous wage; it involves sharing the company's success with employees. Some companies offer a direct stake in the company's performance through stock, a share in profits, or both. Companies with employee stock ownership plans report significantly higher sales growth and higher revenue per employee than do conventionally owned companies in the same industry. However, virtually all the gains to be had go to those that create an ownership culture, by building in participative management and helping employees learn to think and act like owners.

Keywords

Jobs and Positions; Employee Ownership; Profit Sharing; Organizational Culture

Citation

Campbell, Dennis, John Case, and Bill Fotsch. "More than a Paycheck: How to Create Good Blue-Collar Jobs in the Knowledge Economy." Harvard Business Review 96, no. 1 (January–February 2018): 118–124.
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About The Author

Dennis Campbell

Accounting and Management
→More Publications

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