Last Saturday, a polar bear white lab named Emma joined the Schmitt household. It struck me that bringing her into the fold parallels onboarding a new member of your leadership team. Integrating a new personality can be a transformative experience, just as Emma’s presence has transformed our family. Both scenarios involve adjustment and integration and significantly impact the dynamics of the group.
Here are a few of the parallels:
Preparation
We began preparing when we signed the contract for a new pup, purchased a new crate, and filled our home with noisy toys and treats. We also warned the kids that their lives would change—they might be awakened by cries in the night. Similarly, when someone new joins the team, preparation is vital. Existing team members must be open and receptive to the newcomer. This might involve briefing the new member about the team's goals, values, and current projects and preparing the team to welcome new ideas and perspectives.
A Great First Day
On our first day home, the family room floor began to resemble a preschool. We hugged Emma, squeaked her new elephant, and gave her lots of pets and belly scratches. We created a safe and supportive environment. Similarly, you want a new member of your leadership team to experience authenticity and caring candor. This provides the foundation for the new team to create psychological safety and collaboration.
Building Trust and Relationships
Building trust with Emma involves consistent care, training, and affection. Daily routines, positive reinforcement, and patience help Emma feel secure and loved, forming a strong bond with the family. Likewise, trust-building is essential in a team. Open communication, shared experiences, and mutual respect strengthen relationships. Leaders need to demonstrate their commitment to the team and its goals.
Learning and Adaptation
Emma is constantly learning about her new environment. She is exploring, learning to stay out of the dining room, and starting to understand that chewing on the table legs is a hard “no.” Similarly, a new leader brings fresh perspectives and ideas. The team needs to share existing norms and processes but also be open to learning and adapting, which might involve being flexible in their approach, updating existing processes, and embracing new strategies.
Overcoming Challenges
Emma’s first week has presented challenges. She requires constant supervision and chomps down on anything that resembles a stick. And, of course, we have cleaned up some “messes.” Likewise, integrating a personality can come with challenges, such as differing opinions or changes in dynamics. Addressing these challenges openly and constructively ensures smooth transitions and continuous growth.
Changing Dynamics and Evolving Culture
Emma's presence has significantly changed our family dynamic. Her personality, energy, and needs have changed our daily routines and interactions. She represents 20% of our family and, by extension, 20% of our culture. Side note: My daughter was very excited that we are now a female-dominant household. Similarly, introducing a new leader can significantly alter the team’s dynamics. A new leader brings unique experiences, skills, and perspectives, contributing to the team’s culture. If a new member represents 20% of a team, then 20% of the contributions and culture have shifted.
Conclusion
Whether integrating a new member of your leadership team or welcoming a new puppy into a family, the core principles of preparation, trust-building, adaptation, and support remain the same. By focusing on the changing dynamics and the new member's contribution to the evolving culture, we can understand the importance of creating a welcoming and nurturing environment. Embracing these changes enriches the team, leading to a more vibrant and resilient culture, just as Emma is doing for what we jokingly refer to as “The Schmitt Show.”
One Final Note
I am 100% certain you DO NOT want to hire me to train your dog. Helping your leadership team become better and faster, on the other hand, is something that I would love to do. Give me a shout if I can help.