Management In A Changing World

CHAPTER 6HIRING AND BUILDING YOUR TEAM

In Chapter 4, we talk about Valerie, our head of talent, who needed to hire a director of talent. When she finally hired someone—Breanna—the results were incredible. To say that Breanna was a good hire would be an understatement. In just under a year at TMC, Breanna:

• Helped us fill 12 roles.
• Set standard practices around hiring processes and got hiring managers aligned on them. These practices improved candidates’ experiences, mitigated bias, and ultimately, made everyone's job easier.
• Created a way for finalists to share feedback about equity, accessibility, timeliness, and overall experience of our hiring process.
• Was promoted because of all of the above (and much more!).

Beyond owning—and improving—the day‐to‐day work, Breanna contributed to TMC in other ways. She showed up ready to be a team player, from sharing ideas about our brand refresh to judging our admin team's annual gingerbread decorating contest. In addition, Breanna gently pushed and supported Valerie to buck traditions that got in the way of equity, sustainability, and results.

When we make great hires, everything gets better.

• Our results are stronger because of the added talent and capacity.
• We get to spend our time and energy more strategically.
• Our teams benefit from a new colleague's fresh perspectives, experiences, and energy.
• As managers, we get a new partner in the work—someone to conspire and align with.

Hiring well is one of the most important things we do ...