
The Modern People Leader: Forward-Thinking HR
223 - Shane Koller (Chief People Officer, Ancestry): Running your People Team like a Product Team
Apr 4, 2025
In this installment, Shane Koller, Chief People Officer at Ancestry, shares his innovative journey of running HR like a product team. He discusses the critical connection between employee experiences and organizational goals, emphasizing how storytelling enhances engagement. Shane highlights the importance of a shareholder mindset within HR and the need for CEO alignment to transform traditional practices. He also dives into metrics for measuring success and the lessons learned from 'fail fast' moments in the HR landscape.
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Quick takeaways
- Shane Koller emphasizes the need for HR to adopt a product mindset, aligning people operations with business objectives for greater impact.
- Ancestry's commitment to marrying technology and privacy highlights the essential balance between innovation and individual data security in HR.
Deep dives
The Role of Good News Stories in Building Positivity
Starting discussions with good news stories fosters a positive atmosphere in workplace conversations. Sharing personal anecdotes, like rescuing bees or celebrating anniversaries, emphasizes the importance of gratitude and connection among team members. These stories not only lighten the mood but also help build relationships, encouraging team members to engage with each other on a more personal level. By creating an environment that values positivity, organizations can enhance overall morale and productivity.
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