The Power of Mattering

How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance

By: Zach Mercurio

Narrated by: Patrick Mealey

Increasingly, people report feeling overlooked, ignored, and underappreciated at work. Simply put, they don't feel like they matter to their leaders or organizations. This hidden epidemic of insignificance is fueling a mental health crisis, intensifying loneliness, and, for organizations, driving disengagement, turnover, and low performance.

The good news is that leaders can learn the skills to ensure that everyone around them feels valued. Drawing from hands-on work in hundreds of diverse industries and organizations, researcher and speaker Zach Mercurio reveals how mattering to others is a fundamental requirement for thriving. He introduces a simple yet effective framework for making daily interactions with your people more meaningful:

• Noticing: the practice of seeing and hearing others
• Affirming: the practice of showing people how their unique gifts make a difference
• Needing: the practice of showing people they're relied on

Filled with practical advice, helpful exercises, and inspiring real-world examples, The Power of Mattering equips leaders at all levels with the tools they need to revitalize their teams—and entire organizations—by showing people that they matter.

©2025 Zach Mercurio (P)2025 Ascent Audio

Mattering matters.

This book was recommended by a colleague. In the day to day madness of work, life, and even relaxation - we rush so much of everything around us. Slowing down and understanding how I matter allows me to slow down for others so they can see they matter too. Changed my perspective and opened my eyes.

Powerful lesson

This book really impressed upon me the power of mattering and my role in promoting this mindset in those that work for me. I will highly recommend this book for anyone in leadership or seeking leadership positions.

Slow start but so greatful overall

This book really helped to bring perspective on such an important part of our relationships. I highly recommend this book to everyone.

NAN it is a choice

Such an awesome concept and insight to be the best connector in life. Great story and easy application.

A must read for all leaders!

Zach makes a compelling case that mattering isn’t a soft concept, it’s a strategic imperative. When people feel they matter, they engage more deeply, connect more authentically, and perform with greater purpose!