Lena’s manager asked everyone to name one thing that improved office morale.
Most people mentioned flexible hours or free coffee.
Lena pointed to the large plant by the printer.
Her manager frowned and asked, What has that plant ever done for this team?….
Lena explained that the plant had survived three office moves, two reorganizations, and a month beside the radiator.
It listened to complaints without offering a new spreadsheet. It never booked a meeting. It never replied to all.
The manager said those were not measurable results.
Lena showed him the printer corner. The plant covered the red error light that had been flashing since March. Staff now approached the printer with hope instead of fear.
A colleague added that people watered the plant when they needed a reason to leave long video calls.
Another said its leaves made the only useful privacy screen in the open office.
The manager studied the plant. Then he asked whether it could take on more responsibility.
Lena said it already held every confidential conversation in the building.
The manager nodded and moved the plant into his office.
By Friday, the plant had a new title on the door.
Head of Listening, because management finally found someone qualified.
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