Hire Managers of One

45 snips

Feb 8, 2023

Guest

David Heinemeier Hansson

Guest

Jason Fried

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INSIGHT

Everyone Manages Their Own Work

Everyone at 37signals is expected to manage their own work and scope tasks independently.
They hire people who don't need daily supervision and avoid those used to getting constant task lists.

ADVICE

Use Automated Check-Ins Not Standups

Replace daily standups with asynchronous check-ins asking what you did today and what you'll do this week.
Use these prompts to let employees self-report and preserve long uninterrupted work stretches.

ADVICE

Hire By Reviewing Real Work

Assess candidates with real take-home work projects to see organization, thought process, and time management.
Use the work sample to reveal executive function that resumes and interviews often hide.

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"Everyone should manage themselves" has been a core principle at 37signals from day one and has continued to be key as the company has expanded.

Today, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson sit down to discuss why it’s essential to the success of your company to bring on board self-sufficient employees who require minimal supervision in what they refer to as "Managers of One" from their book, Rework.

Listen in as they provide tips on identifying such individuals during the hiring process, using Basecamp's features to replace what managers do, and the fundamental characteristics of a great "Manager of One."

Show Notes:

[00:42] - "Everyone should manage themselves": A 37signals mantra from day one.

[02:12] - Establishing a culture where there is no need for managers.

[04:03] - David shares two examples of how using Basecamp's Automated Check-ins helps replace what managers do.

[05:12] - Jason shares the behind-the-scenes of using the work to find the employees who are "Managers of One."

[07:26] - David shares how "Drive" by Daniel Pink highlights the three drivers of motivation that they look for in an applicant's cover letter.

[09:20] - Hiring is not a foolproof process—for anyone—even Google.

[10:59] - The "Manager of One" concept applies before and after the hiring process.

[13:47] - Self-identifying problems and rushing to solutions are not enough; the interactions must also be great.

[14:32] - The ultimate quality of a true "Manager of One."

[15:47] - Not to dictate but to support: the hallmarks of a great manager at 37signals.

[19:02] - We're getting ready for a "ask me anything" episode. Do you have a question for Jason and David or anyone at 37signals? Leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850, or send us an email, and we might answer it.

Links and Resources:

Drive

Rework
Do you have a question for Jason and David? Leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email us.
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