This week on the Expert Voices podcast, Randy Wootton, CEO of Maxio, speaks with Cory Sanford, Vice President of Culture and Talent at Guidant Financial. Randy and Cory dig into what it takes to be a successful CEO, offering actionable advice for founders, leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Cory's innovative framework for measuring and fostering organizational culture through connection is meticulously detailed. While emphasizing the importance of effective one-on-ones and streamlined performance management, Cory also discusses the need for simplicity and clarity in leadership practices. 

Quotes

• “There's not a silver bullet in leadership. The closest thing that I have found though is effective in regular one-on-ones. The most important relationship in the workplace is the direct supervisor relationship. At Guidant we've really invested in making sure we're hiring good people leaders, not just technical experts, but these are people that may actually have less technical expertise. But we know are actually going to be the better people leaders because that relationship is so important.” -Cory Sanford [26:54]

• “I like to say that a good onboarding is the best recruiting insurance. And so investing in onboarding. When emotions are high, the chance for high leverage and high success is equally high. And so when people are nervous starting a job, we know we can make a big impact by investing there. So we give them a partner in crime. Somebody that they can ask all the questions.” -Cory Sanford [31:48]

Expert Takeaways 

• Cultural Stewardship: The CEO should be the chief storyteller, setting clear values and principles exemplified through consistent storytelling and strategic communication.
• Effective Questioning: As one ascends the organizational hierarchy, the skill set should shift from having answers to asking the right questions, fostering a culture of curiosity and continuous improvement.
• Connection as Culture: Cory's framework posits that culture is fundamentally about connection – to purpose, leaders, and each other. Measuring and acting upon these connections drive a strong organizational culture.
• Performance Management: A simplified approach to performance reviews can foster better conversations and relationships, focusing on impactful and actionable feedback.
• Strategic Engagement: Regular, meaningful engagement through

Timestamps

(00:04) Unlocking Potential: HR Strategies for Remote Companies

(02:21) Empowering Small Business Owners Through Retirement Fund Financing

(06:05) Seven Secrets of Success for CEOs

(14:06) The Importance of Asking Good Questions as a CEO

(20:21) Measuring and Enhancing Workplace Culture Through Connection

(24:56) High Participation in Global Virtual Events at a Hybrid Company

(26:44) The Importance of Effective One-on-Ones in Leadership

(30:15) Building Connections and Best Practices for Remote Teams

(37:16) Balancing Performance Reviews with Budget Constraints and Calibration

(43:00) Metrics, Business Books, and Influencers

Links

Maxio

Upcoming Events

Maxio Institute Report

Randy Wootton LinkedIn

Cory Sanford LinkedIn