Top Guide Posts from Due North

There was great news on the treatment of Alzheimer's this week. I wouldn't normally post something so personal but the news of Eli Lilly's successful trial of a new drug to treat Alzheimer's Disease inspired me.

While this drug may not help Gayle as her disease has progressed far, if this product can slow the progression for others and lead ultimately to a cure, there is reason to celebrate.

Well done to all my friends at?Eli Lilly and Company. Here's to a future in which no other Gayle's have to suffer this awful disease.

Here's a link to the news release:

https://lnkd.in/gpNTNduK.

"I have product managers who aren't product managers" a new VP of Marketing recently said to me.

I asked him to tell me more. He said they know every SKU in our inventory, how to use our products, and will do precisely what they are told. However, they are not strategic. They are not able to build and execute a business plan. They do not originate new ideas based upon proper data analysis and interpretation. In short, they don't "own" the business, it owns them.

This is a very common problem in many companies. It is driven in part by failing to understand the critical role that product management should play in driving the long term success of a business. Often we see someone that may have started in engineering or product support be placed in product management but not have the required skills to truly be a product manager.

As a result, products get made that should not have been made. Existing products become commoditized. Price pressures build resulting in lower overall profitability.

And so on until suddenly, there's a NEW VP of Marketing.

Attracting and keeping top talent can be a challenging task, but there are several strategies that can help you succeed in this endeavor. Here are some tips:

Build a strong employer brand: Your company's reputation can play a crucial role in attracting top talent. Make sure your company culture, values, and mission are well-defined and communicated effectively.

Offer competitive compensation and benefits: Top talent expects to be compensated fairly for their skills and experience. Make sure you offer a competitive salary and benefits package that is attractive to candidates.

Provide growth opportunities: Top talent seeks opportunities for professional development and career growth. Offer training, mentorship, and clear paths for advancement within your organization.

Foster a positive work environment: Top talent values a positive work culture that promotes collaboration, innovation, and a healthy work-life balance. Create an inclusive and supportive workplace where employees feel valued and empowered.

Use targeted recruitment strategies: Today there is so much noise between automated job boards, social media proliferation, etc. that top talent just tunes it out. In addition, you will be inundated with less qualified candidates that only need to hit the resume submit button. By using recruiters that specialize in your industry and function, you will get exposure to top talent that isn’t actively looking for a new role.

Streamline the hiring process: Top talent is often in high demand, so it's important to move quickly and efficiently through the hiring process. Keep candidates informed and engaged throughout the process to ensure a positive candidate experience.

By following these strategies, you can attract top talent to your organization and build a strong team of skilled and motivated employees.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

There are many reasons to celebrate today.?It's Friday.?There's a lunar eclipse.?It's finally spring here in Minnesota!

How am I celebrating??Smoked pork shoulder for carnitas??Check.?Tomatillos smoking for salsa verde??Check.?Spicey Paloma??Check!

How are you celebrating this amazing day?

Happy Cinco de Mayo!