In December 2009, Nyenrode Business Universiteit conducted a short research among entrepreneurs and managers in the Netherlands. Main topic was inspiration in organizations. Inspiration is about deeper matters such as animation, ideals, passion and spirituality. In total, 527 respondents participated in the online survey: 170 entrepreneurs and 357 managers. The fieldwork was conducted by MWM2.

Managers and entrepreneurs: "Bonuses undermine solidarity within companies"
Summarizing the outcomes, we can conclude that half of managers and entrepreneurs surveyed believe that the credit crisis has been caused by soulless actions on the part of business. Also, half of companies and managers surveyed believe that bonuses undermine a feeling of community within the organization.

One-third of managers surveyed feel that inspiration deserves more attention in their company, while one-third believes that impassioned companies are more successful. Approximately 40 percent of these individuals agreed with the statement that sustainable economic growth is only possible if the corporate strategy is in line with the company's inspiration.

Managers and entrepreneurs surveyed believe that the financial sector is one of the least inspired industries, while public services, such as hospitals and care organizations, are seen as extremely inspired organizations, followed by trade, public administration, the business services industry and manufacturing.


Read the survey report



Business spirituality
In 2006, Nyenrode set up the Business Spirituality chair, which is held by Prof. Dr. Paul de Chauvigny de Blot SJ. The objective of this chair is to create a knowledge centre focusing on inspirational issues within companies, and to examine the question of how spirituality can contribute to organizational innovation and revitalization.

More about Business Spirituality