Start Up
Entrepreneur shapes firm culture
With an initial team of five with only six months working together, the Founder and CEO of a start-up high-tech firm was interested in the kind of culture he was creating. He had been shouldering many of the roles in the firm, acting as chief of marketing, human resources, operations, technology and sales and was ready to re-define roles. With growth ahead, he was also interested in the way the group was handling accountabilities and goal alignment, as well as focusing on results. He wanted a process that would enable the group to explore the way the culture had evolved to date and the areas that needed attention as he started to delegate more and focus on the technology side of the business. The culture discussion would also help the team develop shared understanding of the culture fit requirements for new staff.
Our Qualified Associate selected the Leading Culture Snapshot which examined the way that eight culture patterns operate. This quick 360º survey allowed the team to confidentially input what was being experienced on a day-to-day basis and then to discuss 'delicate topics' that needed to be addressed such as empowerment, accountability and job definitions. In a small firm that begins to feel like 'family', this is usually a difficult task, but the Leading Culture Snapshot supported a non-confrontational discussion.
Here's what the Founder had to say:
"The survey had a positive impact on myself and my company in one obvious way as well as several that are less apparent. Obviously it was good to provide a forum to give my staff a voice about their attitudes in my small company's work environment. As all team members settle into their new positions the report also gave a non-confrontational forum to discuss several delicate topics. As the founder and CEO much of the ultimate responsibility rests on my shoulders, but in order to grow it needs to be transferred to these new staff members. The Leading Culture survey allowed me to candidly discuss this new reality. The conversation benefited from the effective 3rd party voice of the survey which is a real credibility boost. Finally the biggest surprise is that this survey has give me feedback and perspective which I am convinced has already made me a better manager and leader."
Sponsors
Founder and CEO
Services
Leading Culture Snapshot
Outcome
Insights for action to build start-up leadership team
