Richard Du, the Founder and Chairman of SANTOS Holdings, stood at the front of a spacious conference room filled with eager faces. It was a bright Monday morning, and the air buzzed with anticipation. He had gathered his team not just for a routine meeting, but for something deeper—a moment of reflection on why they were all part of this organization.
“Good morning, everyone!” Richard began, his voice warm and inviting. “Today, I want to ask you a simple yet profound question: Why do you want to join SANTOS Holdings? What attracts you to our mission?” He paused, allowing the question to sink in. The room fell silent, and Richard could see the wheels turning in his employees’ minds. This was a question he often posed, not as a formality but as a way to keep the heart of the organization alive. He believed that understanding the ‘why’ behind their commitment was crucial for sustaining passion and resilience, especially in challenging times.
After a moment, Sarah, a young project manager with a bright smile, raised her hand. “I joined SANTOS Holdings because I believe in building not just structures, but communities. I love that we prioritize sustainability and make a positive impact on the environment. It’s not just about profit for me; it’s about leaving a legacy.” Richard nodded, recognizing the sincerity in her words. “Exactly, Sarah! When we connect our work to a greater purpose, we can overcome the obstacles that come our way. Remember, our mission is about more than just what we build; it’s about how we build it and who we are as a company.”
Next, Tom, a seasoned engineer, added, “For me, it’s the culture. I know that my voice matters here. I can share my ideas freely, and that makes me feel valued. It drives me to give my best every day.” Richard smiled broadly. “That’s precisely what we aim for! We want to create an atmosphere where the best ideas win, regardless of who they come from. Each of you plays an essential role in shaping our future.”The discussion continued, with employees sharing their personal motivations and connections to the company’s mission. Richard listened intently, feeling a surge of pride as the voices of his team echoed the values he held dear.
As the meeting drew to a close, Richard decided to share a personal story. “When I started SANTOS Holdings, I faced countless challenges. There were moments of doubt and pain, but I always returned to my ‘why.’ I believed that real estate is the best business not just for the financial opportunities it presents but for the ability to create lasting change in communities. We have the power to shape landscapes, provide homes, and foster environments where people can thrive. That vision kept me going through the toughest times.” He continued, “In real estate, we are not just building buildings; we are building dreams. Each project represents a vision brought to life, and with every brick we lay, we contribute to the stories of families and businesses. This is why I encourage each of you to find what you love in this work. When you discover your passion and align it with our mission, you create something truly powerful.”
Richard looked around the room, seeing the fire in his team’s eyes. “Remember, our theme is always two processes: Find what you love, and love what you found. If we can each connect our personal ‘why’ with the work we do here, we’ll not only endure the painful moments but thrive beyond them.” As Richard concluded the meeting, he felt a renewed sense of purpose within the room. The employees of SANTOS Holdings were not just workers; they were a community of passionate individuals united by a common goal. They were eager to build a future together, fueled by their shared belief in the mission of the organization.
As everyone filed out of the conference room, Sarah turned to Tom and said, “I love that Richard keeps reminding us of our ‘why.’ It really does make a difference. I feel more motivated than ever to contribute to our projects.” Tom nodded in agreement. “Absolutely. It’s inspiring to know that we’re part of something bigger. Real estate truly is the best business because we have the chance to impact lives directly.”
With that, the employees of SANTOS Holdings left the meeting with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. They were ready to tackle challenges and push boundaries, knowing that their work mattered and that their voices were valued.