Fair Play

Synopsis

"A hands-on, real talk guide for navigating the hot-button issues that so many families struggle with" - Reese Witherspoon

Do you find yourself taking on the lion's share of all the thankless, invisible but time-consuming work in the home? FAIR PLAY is the first book that shows you that there can be a different way: a way to get more done, with less fuss, in a way that feels more balanced.

Eve Rodsky is changing society one relationship at a time, by coming up with a 21st-century solution to an age-old problem: women shouldering the brunt of domestic responsibilities, the mental load, the emotional labour. Everything that is required to keep the fridge full, the children's homework in their bags, and the household running. The unequal division of all this invisible work in relationships is a recipe for disaster, but no one has offered a real solution to this dilemma, until now.

Eve Rodsky was tired of always being the one who has to remember to buy loo roll, or to book the family's dentist appointments, or to send the thank you cards - all while working full time. So Eve decided to do what she does every day as an organisational management consultant: Organise. She conducted original research with more than 500 couples to figure out WHAT the invisible work in a family actually is and HOW to get it done effectively and all in a way that makes relationships even stronger. FAIR PLAY identifies the 100 main tasks in any relationship, and then divides those tasks fairly (not necessarily equally) so that both parties contribute their fair share.

If we don't learn to rebalance our home life and reclaim some time to develop the skills and passions that keep us unique, then we risk losing our right to be interesting, not just to our partner, but to ourselves. Getting this right isn't a luxury, it's a necessity for a happy, lasting partnership. Part how-to guide for couples, part modern relationship manifesto, FAIR PLAY offers an innovative system with a completely original lexicon to discuss how relationships actually work ... and how we can make them work better.

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Business Case for Fair Play

This chapter presents the economic benefits of creating a fair and equitable workplace. It cites real-world examples of companies that have successfully implemented fair play principles, resulting in increased employee productivity, improved customer satisfaction, and higher profitability. For instance, Google's emphasis on transparency and open communication has been linked to its high employee retention rate and innovative work environment.

Chapter 2: The Rules of Fair Play

This chapter outlines the specific principles of fair play that businesses should adopt. These principles include:
* Treating all employees with respect and dignity
* Communicating openly and honestly
* Creating a level playing field for all
* Providing equal opportunities for advancement
* Holding people accountable for their actions

Chapter 3: The Players in Fair Play

This chapter discusses the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders in promoting fair play. It emphasizes the importance of strong leadership, engaged employees, and a supportive corporate culture. For example, Patagonia's commitment to environmental sustainability is driven by both its leadership and its employees who share the same values.

Chapter 4: The Obstacles to Fair Play

This chapter identifies common barriers to fair play in organizations. These obstacles include:
* Bias and discrimination
* Favoritism and nepotism
* Bullying and harassment
* Unclear expectations and goals

Chapter 5: The Tools for Fair Play

This chapter provides practical tools and techniques for implementing fair play principles. These tools include:
* Performance management systems that are fair and objective
* Diversity and inclusion initiatives
* Employee feedback and grievance procedures
* Clear communication channels

Chapter 6: The Rewards of Fair Play

This chapter summarizes the benefits of creating a fair and equitable workplace for both businesses and individuals. These benefits include:
* Increased employee engagement and morale
* Improved teamwork and collaboration
* Reduced turnover and absenteeism
* A better reputation and employer brand
* Enhanced customer satisfaction

Real-World Example

One successful example of fair play in the workplace is Cisco Systems. The company has implemented a number of initiatives to promote fair play, including:

* A "Speak Up" program that encourages employees to report any concerns or unethical behavior
* A "Diversity and Inclusion Council" that works to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace
* A "Performance Management System" that is based on objective criteria and provides regular feedback to employees

As a result of these initiatives, Cisco has been recognized as a top employer for diversity and inclusion, and has consistently ranked highly in employee satisfaction surveys.