The Creators: Community Wisdom ?? #1

Hi there ??

Community wisdom is our bi-weekly curated digest of the most helpful conversations from across Creation’s community.

This edition shares insights on hiring a senior product leader for the first time, traits of effective leaders, and practical ways to enhance team culture.

As ever, if you have any feedback or would like to discuss roles or salary guidance please get in touch on 0333 050 7880 or email [email protected]

Creation team

Advice for founders making their first senior product hire

First, define what type of CPO you need based on your company’s focus. Product management intersects technology, UX, and business, but different CPOs may excel in different areas.

When evaluating candidates, assess their strengths and preferences within these domains. For example, if your brand and marketing are crucial and technology is not a key differentiator, a CPO with a marketing background may be ideal. Conversely, if technology is central to your innovation, seek a CPO with a strong tech development background.

Tailor the job specification to highlight in a Venn diagram which aspects of ‘technology,’ ‘UX’ and ‘business’ are the most critical to your business mission. This will help attract candidates whose expertise matches your needs.

Matt Stone, Director of PlusProduct

Connect with Matt >> https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/matt-stone-uk/

As a founder, the key challenge is learning to let go of control. When you hire a CPO, it's important to trust them to make independent decisions. They may think differently, but that’s a valuable perspective. Trust them to guide the product as your startup grows.

New hires will ask for clarity and measurable results. If your company doesn’t already have a product function, the CPO should recommend aligning to the overall business objectives.

Amy Glees, Director of Product and Technology at Telstra Health

Connect with Amy >> https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/amy-glees-a8285610/

Shortlist candidates who not only excel in managing data but also people.

While managing complex data effectively is important, it's equally vital to focus on understanding customer pain points and real-world impact rather than solely optimising metrics for the sake of it.

Nick Constantinou - Business Transformation Advisor

What traits are essential for effective leadership?

Authenticity and integrity are essential

Leadership is key in setting the right culture and leading by example. If you feel you're compromising on these, you won’t be happy or produce good work.

Amy Glees, Director of Product and Technology at Telstra Health

I'm heavily influenced by the concept of servant leadership, which prioritises understanding and supporting the team rather than wielding authority.?

This approach fosters trust and constructive dialogue, allowing both the team and myself to grow together.

Estelle Ricoux - Customer Experience and Product expert

Connect with Estelle >> https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/estellericoux/

Integrity and authenticity are crucial

In addition, you need to be honest and adaptable because the world is always changing. If you're not adaptable, you won't succeed.

Liz Henderson - Digital and Data Board Advisor and Non-Executive Director

Connect with Liz >> https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/dataqueenliz/

How can I enhance team culture?

Create an environment that discourages defensiveness

It takes a maturity to handle challenges constructively and not take things personally. Healthy tension and debate are essential to get to the best outcome.

Robert Burr - Director of Digital Commerce, VF Corporation

Connect with Rob >> https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/rjburr/

Create a team culture of always asking "why?"

Why are we doing what we're doing? Why are we doing this way? Approaching work with a “Why” mentality ensures that your team is always thinking about the customer.

Sonia Araujo, VP Product Management

Connect with Sonia >> https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/araujosonia/

Practice true empathy.

Unlike sympathy, which is just recognising someone’s situation from a distance, empathy means attempting to deeply understand someone’s world view, even if you haven't shared the same experiences. It’s important not to try to suggest solutions every time. Sometimes, people need someone to sit with them in the mud for a while!

Matt Stone, Director of PlusProduct

How Creation can help you

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Ian McAuliffe - Chairman, Think Publishing

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"Creation have helped us with key leadership roles across Technology & UX. The team have managed to keep the shortlisted options absolutely spot on. Culture and attitude is incredibly important to us as a business, so we really value their personable, pragmatic approach."

Gemma Coles - Head of Mubaloo

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“Creation On-Demand has helped me recruit and scale digital teams many times, supporting the delivery of key projects. It’s always a pleasure working with them, and their flexible approach gives you access to a range of specialists that deliver value from day one.”

Nick Welch - Chief Technology Officer at Vidatec

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