Company Culture

Many years ago at the start of my career, I focused a lot on the job itself. I always wanted to learn and have fun. Over time I have also realized how important the culture is both for the company sustainable competitive advantage as for the success and growth of employees. Today, it is probably one of the most important reasons why I might join and leave an organization.

Culture is everything. Culture gives employees the framework in which they operate, the limits. Culture defines what is acceptable. However, I have very often seen a disconnect between the promoted values and the actual ones people believe in. It might be caused by too many values, therefore losing focus, or because they are just aspirational and not real. You need to define what is essential: less is more. I would rather accept three that have a deep impact on people instead of a long list that becomes useless from day one because of its breadth.

In order for the culture to permeate the structure, leaders should surround themselves with people that share the same view of the world, then those will transmit the values to their reports, and so on. Everyone will be essential to make the main cultural principles stick. Be crystal clear on what you think is important. Not hiring or firing somebody that might be outstanding due to not fitting is ok. In exponential growth companies, this is challenging because of the trade-offs that should be always balanced. In my experience, I would rather think twice than regret a few months later. In any case, as you know, it is never easy.

These are the three most important values for me at a professional level:

• Humility: always be humble and learn both on your own and from others. Your opinions are as valuable as others' and decisions must be based on facts. Since consensus is often hard to reach, an owner should instead take responsibility and accept both success and failure, as well as share any outcome with all the people involved. Listening to others and working cohesively is the only way to achieve ambitious goals. Treat everyone as you would like to be treated, and the more you give, the more you will get. Always be generous.
• Customer obsession: this might be easier said than done. Being customer driven means talking to customers daily. It means active listening and trying hard to solve customers' pains. It requires prioritizing their needs instead of your internal processes (and problems or limitations). It entails ongoing adaptation and grit to change your initial plan. Everything evolves, let's be ready to embrace change and co-create a better future with our customers.
• Results. Any company wants results in terms of revenue growth and profit. To me, it means a little bit more than that. Results imply that you give your people what they need to stay with you. Immaterial results are sometimes more important than the actual short-term profit. Thinking long term is much more rewarding than looking at quarterly (or monthly) balance sheets. Results are the impact we have in the world surrounding us. I try hard to be driven by long-term value.

Looking forward to your comments with your experience! :)

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