Round Table China Star employees. Boost or bust?
Nov 27, 2024
The conversation dives into the complex dynamics of hiring star employees. It highlights how these high performers can boost productivity but may also disrupt team morale. Listeners are treated to a cultural exploration of Xinjiang, including a fun nod to Marco Polo. The importance of blending star talent with seasoned team members is emphasized, showcasing the need for a balance between individual brilliance and collaboration. Overall, it's a mix of uplifting stories and thought-provoking insights on workplace culture.
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Star Employee Impact
- Star employees can significantly boost a company's output, with studies suggesting that a small percentage are responsible for a large portion of overall productivity.
- However, their impact can be disproportionate, making them highly sought after by organizations.
Apple vs. Microsoft Staffing
- Apple developed iOS 10 with 600 engineers in 2 years, while Microsoft's Vista took 10,000 engineers and 5 years, ultimately failing.
- This example highlights differing staffing strategies and potential outcomes of large vs. small, focused teams.
Risks of Hiring Stars
- Hiring star employees can boost talent, resources, and competition, but it's a risky strategy.
- It can decrease team performance and morale if existing employees feel dejected or the star doesn't adapt.