WLP345 Growing A Lifestyle-Centric, Values-Driven Distributed Business
Jan 18, 2024
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Founder of FPS, Jeanna Barrett, shares insights on setting up a values-driven distributed business, remote hiring challenges, balancing time freedom, and adapting to a lifestyle-centric work culture. She discusses company culture, use of EOS system, and podcasting for networking in the remote work era.
FPS promotes work-life balance through 32-hour work weeks and asynchronous work culture.
FPS focuses on values-driven business approach and building internal bonds through in-person team events.
Deep dives
Early Stages of First Page Strategy and Remote Work Philosophy
First Page Strategy, also known as FPS, was founded in 2016 as a remote agency focusing on growth marketing for SaaS and tech industries across the US and other countries. Gianna Barrett, the founder, desired a remote lifestyle after experiencing burnout in Corporate America, leading her to accidentally establish FPS, which has since grown to 20-30 full-time and contract employees distributed worldwide.
Operational Challenges and Remote Working Logistics
Navigating the intricacies of remote hiring and operations, FPS employs a meticulous EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) structure with a 'takeoff team' overseeing various business divisions. To promote a balanced work culture and avoid burnout, FPS implements 32-hour work weeks, tracks time efficiently, and emphasizes the importance of asynchronous work to maintain productivity and prevent employees from feeling constantly 'on'.
Cultural Values and Vision for FPS Employees
FPS fosters a culture aligned with Gianna's vision of enabling employees to live the 'FPS life' characterized by meaningful work, fair compensation, work-life balance, and the freedom to pursue personal endeavors without stress. The agency's internal processes, including 32-hour work weeks and emphasis on work-life harmony, aim to uphold this vision and create a supportive environment for employees.
Future Goals: In-Person Events and Productizing FPS Offerings
Looking ahead, FPS plans to introduce in-person team events to strengthen internal bonds and explore productizing its unique propositions for clients. The agency focuses on hiring top-tier experts, tailoring services to high-growth brands, and cultivating a distinctive agency culture, anticipating a shift towards more client-company compatibility in embracing remote work dynamics.
In this episode, Pilar talks to Jeanna Barrett, founder and Chief Remote Officer at the fully distributed company FPS. Jeanna shares how she set up the company by following her values and aspiring lifestyle, as well as her approach to company culture, remote operations and how values influence her decisions.