On my flight back home last week I was sitting next to a woman who had her
laptop out most of the flight. She was a Microsoftie no doubt, and I knew this as she was working on her yearly commitments. Commitment setting at Microsoft is a ridiculously long and tedious process that involves multiple pages of countless sections and sub-sections of big words talking about what you are going to do in the upcoming year. I never really found it very useful to my job in any capacity, but it was a necessary evil. I felt an immediate sense of relief that I no longer had to go through this process any longer. It also made me realize what I love about working at Strategies 360; we specialize in getting shit done.
It seems silly to imply that producing results requires some sort of “art”, but I can tell you first hand, that there are plenty of large organizations that get in their own way when it comes to doing so. It was one of the most frustrating things that led me to move on from Microsoft. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of incredibly talented and smart people that work at Microsoft, and I enjoyed my time there thoroughly. But I just got tired of all the process, layers of bureaucracy, and all the roadblocks that got in the way of actually getting work done and making progress. Great ideas on the front lines would never see the light of day. (Side note, I exclude Xbox from this opinion as I feel they’ve killed it from day one.)
Of course some people thrive on that sort of environment, but I didn’t. I hunger for the satisfaction of getting things done on a daily basis, an environment that encourages taking good ideas and acting on them instead of waiting for 17 different managers to review and approve. We certainly have to have some process and systems of checks and balances, but for the most part, we are laser focused on producing results for our clients and finding creative ways to do so, many times on the fly.
I suppose it’s pretty systemic for companies as they grew incredibly large to fall prey to more process, layers of management and slower innovation. However I feel like there are larger companies that continue to innovate and thrive as they grow. Some of my favorite brands such as Google & Apple continue to do so. I’d be interested to know how their internal workings have allowed them to continuously push out innovative products and services despite hyper growth.
I suppose the moral to the story is don’t get so caught up in spending countless hours on how you are going to do something, and just get in there and do it. Don’t let over planning and analyzing get in the way of progress. I believe the best results often net from learning through a bit of trial and error anyway.
It’s working for us, and I’d love to hear from you and what you might be experiencing.
I agree. I used to work for a leafing European software company that hired staff for their innovation and ability to solve complex problems.
Overnight the culture changed and they made people become a project manager. I resisted as I valued my zaniness too much.
Well the recession has dragged on. All those project managers are on the scrap heap as there are no projects to manage.
Me ?? Well my zaniness has helped me work with companies who want to survive in these crazy times !!!
Interesting Kaps. I think the companies that are thriving these days are the ones that are built to allow for innovation. Allowing those on the front lines to use their smarts and creativity to produce results.
Jason,
Enjoyed the article. I think we’re all guilty of spinning some wheels, sometimes. But mainly, I’m one for getting schtuff done too!
As someone that’s worked for my own company for so long, when I work with committees for community projects, I experience this process where stalls occur, and it drives me nuts.
Like Nike – Just do it!!
~Keri
It’s pretty rare for anyone to not have experienced working somewhere like this. I was able to take it for awhile but had to end up somewhere where I felt like I could make a difference. It’s pretty liberating to have that. Thanks for stopping by and commenting Keri!
Nice article, I agree 100% As recruiter, I am thankful for my foundations in contract recruitment. Recruiting contractors taught me the value of getting shit done and getting it done now! It’s fast paced, business critical, find the right person for the job now or the world (or at least company) will come to an end!
It’s that urgency and getting to shit done mentality that in a lot of ways sets me aside from my permanent consultant peers.
-Annie
Great insight Annie. I contracted once and that is definitely a scenario that forces you to get it done vs. too much planning. You only have a set amount of time and have to make an impact.
Great! Needed to read this. Motivation as I feel like I am spending too much time and energy trying to find just the right way to get started on all of my projects. Need to just sit down and try something. Thanks for the post!
I’m glad I could provide some motivation! I should probably take some of my own advice on some side projects I’d love to start.
Jason:
You are spot on my man. I am currently in an environment like this which is why I am working hard to create my own business so I can work for myself and get some shit done while having fun and making a living.
Thanks for the post.
Thanks for stopping by Rob. Good luck with your own business. It’s always exciting to do your own thing, and have power to make it happen without others getting in the way.
My very favorite part of working in live TV (besides giving valuable information in emergencies) is the way we work. Have an idea? Problem need solving? Execute it live within seconds! No email, memo, long words, or strategy sessions.
I can relate Darby! I was a communications major and LOVED a similar environment having to put stories together in minutes. Had a blast doing that. Unfortunately I couldn’t bear the lower salaries in broadcasting (compared to marketing) so I went a different route.
Always enjoy reading your articles 🙂 I feel the same way and am glad that where I work now allows me to have freedom to make choices and execute ideas. Bravo!
Hey Gabi! Hope you’re doing well. Thanks for stopping by and the kind words.