Great Handbook full of insightful strategies
Recently I read the Valve Corporate Handbook – this resource is designed for all new employees (thanks to Dr Jason Fox and Matt Church for sharing it).
This enlightening resource is an outline of the company’s principles. It is not what you think… not your typical corporate-speak document full of jargon – it is heart felt and insightful. It got me thinking about how to create environments where people feel they are making the contribution they were meant to make.
Here is a summary of my favorite learnings:
Keep it flat
This company is flat, no management, no one reports to anyone – a flat structure removes organizational barriers. Can you keep your practice flat?
Use wheels
No desk is stationary – all have wheels so people can move their space around to participate in any project they wish. What policies or procedures are keeping you back from achieving your goals?
Choose value
Choose to invest your time and talents in the projects that are most rewarding and leverage your strengths. Are you focusing on the highest return activities?
Measure value
When taking any action ensure it can be measured, predict outcomes and analyze results. Do you measure all you do to ensure it has impact?
Fail fast
Screwing up is a great way to find out if your assumptions are wrong or your model needs to be enhanced. Listen to the evidence and then move on. Are you prepared to fail fast and move on?
Leverage collective ability
Meet challenges together, take advantage of opportunities, and distribute responsibility widely. Do you trust your team to achieve greatness?
Maintain balance
Working a lot of hours is not productivity – it indicates inefficiency. Use the time in your office efficiently so you can go home and spend time with people you care about. Do you feel out of balance?
Everyone designs
Everyone has a role as a strategist to figure out what is right for you and your customers. Does your team take responsibility for design and delivery?
Accelerate growth
High Performers are self-improvers – design your own learning ladder. Are you building your talents?
Use these ideas in your next team conversation to foster an environment that nurtures greatness from your team!
What are your ideas on how you can create an environment for greatness? Share your ideas with us here on our blog.
PS. If you want more ideas on how to increase your productivity – check out other blogs here and several eBooks you can share with your team.
