Entrepreneurs often worry about staff issues. EOS® Worldwide found that 82% of entrepreneurs lose sleep over maximizing team productivity. Kelly Knight, President of EOS Worldwide, discussed this on the Powered by Instinct podcast with Amy Bruske from Kolbe Corp.
Key to a Thriving Team: Intentional Culture
Knight emphasized the importance of placing the right people in the right roles, aligning their core values and capabilities with their positions. This strategy ensures each team member not only fits the organizational goals but is also naturally suited to their responsibilities, as measured by tools like Kolbe.
She warned against compromising on fit when under pressure to fill positions quickly, as this often leads to bigger problems. Maintaining an intentional culture requires recognizing that people evolve, which should be addressed in regular reviews to adapt roles and responsibilities accordingly.
Commitment Is Crucial
Creating a successful workplace culture doesn’t happen by accident; it requires dedication and strategic planning. According to Knight, turning around a culture takes 12 to 18 months and may initially worsen before improving. This process can be challenging for rapidly growing businesses that feel they can’t afford to pause.
However, Knight assures that an intentional approach to building culture minimizes people problems and leads to a fulfilling work environment. She discussed this further in the book People: Dare to Build an Intentional Culture, providing a guide for entrepreneurs to develop a legacy-worthy business culture.
Knight concluded that investing in a thoughtful, people-first culture not only enhances productivity but also builds a legacy, making the journey as rewarding as the outcomes.
