Lessons Learned from a B2B Startup CEO During the 2020 Global Pandemic, Part 2
Transparency is Vital
Global crisis aside, Vertify operates on transparency… As a leader, it is important for the entire team to know how the company is performing, where the challenges are, what the financial health of the company looks like, and what you are collectively doing to keep the train on the tracks. No, I am not suggesting you tell everyone everything. That can be a disaster. But, being more transparent than feels natural may be a good idea for you and your business.
“As a leader, it is important for the entire team to know how the company is performing, where the challenges are…and what you are collectively doing to keep the train on the tracks.”
Matt Klepac, CEO
You see, if you hired the right people, and I am sure you did, then they can take it. You do not need to feel like you are protecting them from something they can’t handle. No, our team did not take as much risk as Wayne or I did, but they are taking on some level of risk. They are embracing that risk, and the desire to help the company achieve great things. People want to take on more ownership if they trust that you are being transparent and honest. So, give them that ability to do more, see more, and act more by opening up.
Something we’ve implemented is the Ask Me Anything (AMA) weekly session. Speakers aren’t limited to the CEO, it extends to the entire executive team, advisors, and board members. This allows our team to ask probing and interesting questions. It allowed them to hear things that may have not been heard otherwise and it also allowed them to be inspired to take ownership of their future. Not only does it empower them, but it puts the executive team in the hot seat. It allows us to be challenged by those closest to us. Remember, iron sharpens iron. Embrace it!
One last point. Extend that transparency to your board and investor body. They want you to succeed. They too have a diverse set of experiences that can add significant value.
This is the 2nd in a series of 3 – missed the first? Check out: Lessons Learned from a B2B Startup CEO During the 2020 Global Pandemic. And stay tuned for “ORGANIZE, PRIORITIZE, & FOCUS“