Building a Team That Builds the Business: How to Recruit Strategically
Jan 3, 2025
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J.J. Levenske, President and Co-Founder of Bleuwave with over 30 years in construction, shares essential insights on strategic team building and leadership. He discusses his transformative journey and the emotional risks taken during career shifts. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, effective communication, and nurturing internal talent for sustainable growth. J.J. also emphasizes the role of emotional intelligence in leadership and the positive impact of selfless acts in fostering strong business relationships.
Paying it forward in professional relationships not only enriches the community but can also lead to unexpected long-term benefits and opportunities.
Continuous learning and adaptability are vital in leadership, emphasizing the need for mentorship and fostering a culture of growth within organizations.
Integrating technology with human capital and cultivating a strong company culture of collaboration and support are essential for future business success.
Deep dives
The Power of Paying It Forward
Paying it forward is highlighted as a key to success and fulfillment in life and business. When individuals actively help others without keeping score, they unlock new opportunities that may not have been possible otherwise. This practice not only enriches the community but can also lead to unexpected returns, such as clients resurfacing after years because of prior goodwill shared with them. The speaker emphasizes that even a simple gesture of connecting someone with a competitor can result in long-term benefits, reinforcing the idea that generosity breeds prosperity.
Learning and Growing Through Experience
The journey of transitioning from roles within various companies to starting a new venture underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. Experiences in high-pressure environments teach valuable lessons about leadership, asking for help, and effectively communicating one’s vision. The decision to pursue an MBA after feeling inadequate in front of seasoned professionals illustrated the speaker's commitment to personal growth. By fostering a culture of learning within organizations, individuals can become more effective leaders and mentors.
Embracing Change and Innovation
Adopting a mindset that welcomes change is crucial in today's fast-paced business environment, particularly as AI and machine learning technologies evolve. Organizations need to interact with and harness these tools to enhance productivity rather than replace human potential. Investing in human capital, promoting from within, and encouraging employees to embrace challenges fosters a robust corporate culture. The speaker stresses that businesses focusing on the integration of technology and people will be instrumental in shaping the future workplace.
The Importance of Culture in Leadership
Establishing a strong company culture where team members collaborate and support each other's growth is essential for long-term success. Leaders should prioritize empathy and understanding while fostering a work environment that encourages innovation and open communication. When team members feel valued, they are more likely to become advocates for the organization, driving improved performance and satisfaction. This focus on culture creates a positive cycle where personal and organizational growth go hand in hand.
Taking Calculated Risks
Entrepreneurs are encouraged to take calculated risks and pursue opportunities despite the fear of failure. The discussion emphasizes that the path of entrepreneurship is often paved with challenges but that embracing these experiences can lead to personal and professional growth. Mentorship and the sharing of experiences help aspiring entrepreneurs navigate their journeys with greater confidence. The speaker instills the idea that even unsuccessful ventures provide valuable lessons that contribute to future successes.
J.J. Levenske is the President and Co-Founder of Bleuwave, a company that provides facilities-based solutions for its clients. J.J. has over 30 years of experience in the construction and business solutions industry, and is a past board member at Vistage Worldwide, Inc., a global CEO peer advisory and executive coaching organization. He is also the host at MAC & Bleu, a podcast covering all things related to Building the Future. In this episode, we talked about team building, mergers and acquisitions, visionary leadership, enterprise value growth...
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