Masters of Scale Rapid Response: Redesigning work in a crisis, w/Upwork CEO Hayden Brown
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Jun 16, 2022 Hayden Brown, CEO of Upwork and a leader in the tech platform for freelancers, discusses the shift in work culture driven by crises. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on the 'who' rather than the 'where' in workforce management. Hayden shares insights on adaptive leadership during global challenges, the vital role of clarity in hybrid work policies, and empowering mothers to re-enter the workforce. She also explains how parenting skills can enhance workplace performance and highlights Upwork's evolution towards flexibility and employee appreciation.
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Upwork's Response to the Ukrainian War
- Upwork's CEO, Hayden Brown, decided to pull her company out of Russia and Belarus after the Ukrainian war broke out.
- This was despite those countries comprising 10% of Upwork's business and workforce.
Navigating Crises as a New CEO
- Brown viewed her first two years as Upwork CEO as "playing defense," focusing on navigating crises.
- She planned to "go on offense" in 2022, but the Ukrainian war disrupted those plans.
Clarity and Experimentation in Work Models
- Choose a clear approach to work (remote, hybrid, or in-office) and communicate it clearly to your team.
- Be prepared to experiment and adapt your approach based on feedback and evolving needs.