In this episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Mike White, the founder of Secchi, an employee engagement software company. They discuss the role of data-driven decision-making in unlocking the workforce's potential and improving company culture. Mike shares his journey in HR and how he founded Secchi to address the challenges frontline supervisors face. They also explore the impact of industry on company culture and the importance of leadership in shaping it. The conversation highlights the role of AI in simplifying performance reviews and reducing administrative tasks in manufacturing. Finally, they discuss strategies for reducing turnover and implementing changes to impact company culture positively. In this conversation, Jim and Mike discuss the importance of building a solid company culture. They explore topics such as generational change, building relationships, creating paradigm shifts, values and mission, and the meaning of work. The conversation highlights the impact of culture on employees' lives and the importance of caring for others. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into creating a positive and meaningful work environment in the manufacturing industry.Takeaways

• Data-driven decision-making can unlock the potential of the workforce and improve company culture.
• Frontline supervisors play a crucial role in a company's success and need tools to navigate their responsibilities effectively.
• Simplifying performance reviews with AI can make the process easier for both supervisors and employees.
• Company culture can vary within industries and even within different departments of the same company.
• Reducing turnover requires a strategic approach that addresses the root causes and engages employees.
• AI has the potential to automate administrative tasks and improve efficiency in manufacturing.
• Implementing changes to company culture requires listening to employees, addressing their concerns, and taking action. Building a strong company culture can lead to generational change and positively impact employees' lives.
• Creating relationships and fostering a sense of community at work can significantly contribute to building a solid culture.
• Volunteer projects and involving families in work activities can help create a paradigm shift and change colleagues' perceptions.
• The right values, mission, and caring about others are essential for building a positive culture.
• Work can be meaningful and transformative, and focusing on the work itself can significantly impact individuals and the company as a whole.

Chapters

• 00:00Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout
• 01:27Introduction of Guest: Mike White
• 03:20Secchi: Providing Guidance for Frontline Supervisors
• 06:09Simplifying Performance Reviews with Secchi
• 08:43Making Performance Reviews Easier with AI
• 10:33Mike White's Journey to Founding Secchi
• 13:44The Impact of Company Culture on Employee Engagement
• 16:46The Influence of Industry on Company Culture
• 18:33The Variability of Culture within Companies
• 20:17The Role of Leadership in Shaping Company Culture
• 22:21The Importance of Frontline Leaders in Company Culture
• 24:34Overcoming Resistance to Using Data in Manufacturing
• 34:40Reducing Turnover in Manufacturing
• 39:55The Role of AI in Manufacturing and Company Culture
• 45:11Using Data to Develop Strategic Strategies
• 47:24The Impact of AI on Administrative Jobs in Manufacturing
• 52:02Implementing Changes to Impact Company Culture
• 53:24Generational Change and Impact
• 54:20Building Culture through Relationships
• 55:33Creating Paradigm Shifts
• 56:02Values, Mission, and Caring
• 56:59Perseverance and Work as Meaning
• 58:08Summary

A special thanks to our sponsor, Speroni, for their support in bringing this insightful discussion to you.

Stay connected with Mike White and learn more about Secchi:

• Mike White's LinkedIn
• Secchi Website