Episode 89 | Creating A Sustainable Team Culture with Steph Korpal and Dawn Gabriel

Understanding Your Priorities: Building a Team That Matters

When it comes to building and growing your team, understanding your priorities is key. As the speakers emphasized, "Get clear on what's important to you as you build and grow your team." Take some time to reflect on your core values and the qualities you seek in team members. By identifying what truly matters to you, you can ensure that your team aligns with your vision.

The significance of culture should not be overlooked. "Having a culture that works for you and the lifestyle you want is essential." Your team's culture sets the tone for the entire workplace. It impacts employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall success. Consider what kind of culture you want to create and how it can contribute to a positive and engaging work environment.

Hiring Process: From Job Posting to Termination

Crafting a compelling job description is an important step in attracting the right candidates. As the speakers suggested, "Craft a job description that accurately reflects your requirements and company culture." Be clear about the role, responsibilities, and qualifications you're looking for. Additionally, highlight the unique aspects of your team and workplace. This will help you attract candidates who resonate with your mission and values.

When it comes to hiring, it's crucial to align your decisions with your values and culture. During interviews, incorporate values-based questions to assess cultural fit. As one of the speakers noted, "Ensure your hiring process aligns with your values and desired culture." By evaluating candidates based on both skills and cultural alignment, you can build a team that not only performs well but also thrives together.

Handling termination is a sensitive aspect of team management. The speakers advised, "Handle termination based on your values and culture." Terminations can be challenging, but approaching them with empathy and respect is essential. Provide constructive feedback and support to help employees grow, even in difficult situations. By prioritizing the well-being of your team members, you can maintain a positive and supportive work environment.

Remember, the hiring process is not just about finding the right skill set—it's about finding individuals who align with your values and contribute to your desired culture. By putting in the effort to attract and select the right candidates, you'll be building a strong foundation for your team's success.

Hiring with a Holistic Approach

When it comes to hiring, it's crucial to adopt a holistic perspective. It's not just about ticking off qualifications on a checklist. Instead, delve deeper into the candidate's personality, work ethic, and potential for growth. As one of our speakers wisely pointed out, "Beyond qualifications, look for individuals who display a genuine interest in your company and demonstrate a willingness to contribute to its success."

Imagine you're assembling a puzzle for your team, with each piece representing a different aspect of a candidate. The qualifications piece is undoubtedly important, but it's just one part of the puzzle. To complete the picture, you need to find individuals whose personalities align with your company's culture and values. Look for those who bring enthusiasm, creativity, and a positive attitude to the table.

What if you were building a high-performance sports team? While technical skills are essential, you also want team members who have a passion for the game, a strong work ethic, and the ability to adapt and grow. These qualities not only contribute to individual success but also foster a collaborative and thriving team dynamic.

By taking a holistic approach to hiring, you're not just filling positions; you're building a team that's united by shared values and a collective drive for success. Look for candidates who not only have the necessary qualifications but also embody the qualities that will enhance your team's culture and contribute to its long-term growth.

Effective Team Management for Growth

Building strong relationships with your team members is a fundamental aspect of effective team management. "Nurture strong relationships with your team members," the speakers emphasized. Encourage open communication, trust, and collaboration. Get to know your team on a personal level and invest in their growth and development. By fostering a sense of belonging and support, you can create a motivated and high-performing team.

Delegating effectively is another crucial skill for team management. "Learn to delegate effectively and empower your team." Assign tasks based on each team member's strengths and expertise. Provide guidance and resources, but also allow autonomy and ownership. Empowering your team members not only boosts their confidence but also encourages innovation and growth within the team.

Preparing for Chaos and Embracing Change

In any business, chaos, and change are inevitable. As one of the speakers wisely mentioned, "Prepare for chaos and embrace the inevitability of change." Recognize that change is a natural part of growth and be prepared to adapt accordingly. Cultivate an environment of flexibility and adaptability within your team. This mindset will enable you to navigate unforeseen circumstances and overcome challenges with resilience.

Implementing strategies to manage change is crucial. "Implement strategies to manage and thrive amidst chaos and change." Encourage open dialogue and brainstorming sessions to collectively find solutions. Foster a culture that embraces change and encourages continuous learning and improvement. By approaching change as an opportunity rather than a setback, you can propel your team and business forward.

Action Steps for Building and Growing Your Team

To successfully build and grow your team while creating a culture that works for you, consider taking the following action steps:

1. Reflect on your priorities and define the values and qualities you seek in your team members.
2. Craft a compelling job description that accurately reflects your requirements and company culture.
3. Incorporate values-based questions during interviews to assess cultural fit.
4. Handle terminations with empathy and respect, providing constructive feedback and support.
5. Nurture strong relationships with your team members, fostering open communication and trust.
6. Delegate effectively, empowering your team members and encouraging their growth.
7. Prepare for chaos and embrace change by fostering adaptability and continuous learning within your team.

By following these action steps and utilizing the recommended resources, you can build a strong team and create a thriving work environment that aligns with your vision and values.

Links and Resources

 

Podcast Production and Show Notes by James Marland