Leadership and Faith: Insights from Jerre Stead on Building Successful Teams (Part 1)
In this captivating episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Philip Amerson welcomes his dear friend and exemplary leader, Jerre Stead, to discuss leadership, teamwork, and community building. With a rich career spanning 47 years, Jerre shares profound insights and experiences from his time leading ten public companies, including NCR, a global enterprise with over 120,000 employees. As a seasoned leader, Jerre offers a unique perspective on setting and achieving ambitious goals while cultivating an inclusive and respectful workplace culture.
Throughout the conversation, Jerre emphasizes the value of setting aggressive yet achievable goals, highlighting the importance of stretching the "rubber band of change" to discover the true potential of a team. By setting these aspirational targets, organizations can push beyond perceived limits and achieve remarkable outcomes.
A key takeaway from Jerre's leadership philosophy is the emphasis on treating every individual with equal dignity and respect. He shares how this principle, rooted in his faith, has been a cornerstone in creating successful and harmonious environments across both for-profit and non-profit organizations. By fostering a culture of 100% trust and ensuring clear, measurable goals, Jerre has consistently empowered his teams to succeed and grow.
Jerre introduces the concept of "Power, Permission, and Protection," which underscores the importance of granting team members the autonomy to pursue their goals while providing the necessary support and safety. This framework enables employees to take ownership of their work, fostering innovation and engagement.
Another significant aspect of Jerre's approach is the regular use of colleague engagement surveys. These anonymous surveys allow employees to share their candid feedback, providing invaluable insights for continuous improvement. Jerre's commitment to reading each comment highlights his dedication to understanding and addressing the needs of his team.
Finally, the episode touches on Jerre's disdain for perks that create divisions within an organization. By eliminating unnecessary perks, Jerre has consistently fostered an egalitarian environment where everyone feels valued and included.
Listeners are encouraged to explore more about Jerre Stead's remarkable journey and leadership philosophy in his published works, where his wisdom as a manager and his grace as a Christian shine through.
Key Takeaways:
- Setting ambitious, achievable goals is crucial for discovering an organization's true potential.
- Treating every person with equal dignity and respect fosters a harmonious and effective workplace.
- Empowering teams through "Power, Permission, and Protection" encourages ownership and innovation.
- Regular engagement surveys provide essential insights for organizational growth.
- Eliminating perks that create divisions promotes an inclusive and egalitarian culture.
