The Power of Values-Driven Leadership
Early in my career, I experienced a transformational moment that fundamentally changed my management approach. Initially, my hiring strategy was to seek only the best and brightest minds, valuing skill and intelligence above all else. However, I soon realized that while this type of talent was essential, character and cultural fit were far more crucial to building a successful team. For the past 30 years, my belief has been that culture is more important than strategy and that character outweighs intelligence.
#### The Shift in Management Philosophy
This shift in philosophy marked a turning point for the company. I began to flip the script on my hiring decisions by prioritizing character over credentials. I started hiring individuals who were not only qualified, but whose values and character aligned with our company's culture. This approach not only enhanced team cohesion but also fostered a more motivated and resilient workforce. Skills can be developed, but common sense and critical thinking are innate and ultimately more important than intelligence. What truly makes a difference is the intrinsic character and the cultural fit of the individuals within the team.
#### The Role of Shared Values
Our company exemplifies the strength of shared values. Integrity, empathy, respect, and a commitment to excellence are not just words on paper; they are lived every day. This consistent practice builds trust and loyalty among team members, which is the bedrock of our success. With more than 15 different first languages spoken by our employees, our diversity adds another layer of value to the team dynamic. Despite our differences, we have built a unified culture of mutual respect where everyone is aligned with our core values. This unity has been instrumental in creating a highly functional and successful company.
#### Implementing Values-Driven Leadership
1. Hire for Character and Fit: Focus on the values and character of potential hires. Skills can be taught, but values are inherent.
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2. Lead by Example: Leadership should embody the company's values. Demonstrating integrity, respect, and empathy sets the tone for the organization.
3. Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued. This enhances creativity and reinforces respect and understanding.
4. Celebrate Diversity: Embrace the unique backgrounds and experiences of team members while staying true to our values. Use this diversity to drive innovation while maintaining a cohesive cultural framework.
5. Invest in Continuous Development: Support the personal and professional growth of employees. Encourage the development of both skills and character.
6.? Stay the Course: Create and stay current with the value proposition to all members of the team.
#### The Bottom Line
In a world where businesses are increasingly global and diverse, values-driven leadership is essential. By prioritizing character and cultural fit and fostering shared values, companies can build resilient, innovative, and high-performing teams. Our journey over the past 30 years has shown that this approach not only works but is essential to sustained success and a positive impact. As we move forward, our commitment to these principles remains steadfast, guiding us towards a future of continued growth and excellence.?
Senior Product Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific
8 个月Stumbled upon this due to my having the same name, but ended up reading the article and I love the emphasis on character and fit in the hiring process! Good stuff.
Founder & Owner
8 个月I can only echo those words. Appear most verbatim in our little black book. Wat to go.
Clay Artist
8 个月Well said, Mark. You’re magic is leading by example and creating an authentic culture of professionals with shared values. In 27 years of working with you and the inevitable evolution and forks in the road that happen in such a long journey, I watched you always take the road that put clients first and kept Wight on solid ground. It was a privilege to be a part of such a great team and company.
Vice President, Director of Architecture at WSP
8 个月Well said and executed. My early experience with Wight directly reflects all of the values that you extol. I too am grateful for having developed my professional backbone at a Company who nurtured strength of character and taught strength of culture by example.
Senior Vice President Government Relations at The Inland Real Estate Group of Companies, Inc.
8 个月Mark is the personification of leadership! Great post.