27 Oct 2023
SmileyWorld Response
2yOur company's structure, deeply rooted in a founder-centric model, might be likened to a form of dictatorship due to the concentrated decision-making power. Unlike larger corporations with checks and balances from external shareholders or a diverse board, our operations are profoundly influenced by the owners. Yet, key stakeholders, including the State, team leaders, the team, clients, and suppliers have a profound impact on what we decide.
Transparency is a fundamental practice. Our company vision isn't merely articulated but extensively discussed with team leaders and the wider team, fostering an environment of open communication. Despite my role as CEO conferring legal authority, I approach this power with careful consideration, steering clear of authoritarian tendencies. We've instituted mechanisms such as surveys, an anonymous mailbox, an employee handbook, and an HR hotline, team leaders meetings, all designed to provide avenues for team members to voice their concerns.
As a creative director, I must make arbitrary choices daily and my opinion on those choices might evolve with time.
The next question is whether I use the seemingly absolute authority legally granted to me as the CEO to make abusive decisions, disrespect our team, or encourage our team leaders to do so. I am proud to say that this is not the case. If it were, there are employment tribunals that would enable team members to protect their rights. Our HR partner, which is Peninsula, has a hotline for staff to discuss these matters, available 24/7, unlike any other HR team. Their number is in our employee handbook and is regularly reiterated by our HR point of contact, Charlene, or our head of HR, Christoph until recently and now Tygoli.
Over the past 12 months, we've continued to pursue positive changes. These include salary increases despite a tough business climate, a flat contribution toward energy cost increases, and bonuses for employees with more than one year's presence. Our commitment to competitive salaries extends beyond industry standards for companies our size, and flexi-time is offered to all staff. Moreover, we prioritize professional development, offering paid training opportunities to enhance the skill sets of team members who request them.
As we navigate the benefits and challenges of remote work, we recognize the diversity of opinions within the team, from matters as seemingly trivial as music in the open office to more significant operational decisions. Decision-making is a collaborative effort involving soliciting feedback, transparent sharing of results, and open discussions about the challenges faced.
It is not “my” company and you know I always use the plural form to talk about us as a team. But ultimately, I make the final choice as I am the one who pays for my my mistakes… and yours.
Your comments are a breach of your contractual obligations and even of my private life, airing company and personal information publicly while hiding behind a platform based in the USA, to breach UK laws. You are actually the one abusing your power. While constructive feedback is actively encouraged, airing grievances publicly is counterproductive. Proper channels, including our HR team and open communication forums, are strongly emphasized for addressing concerns.
In cultivating a positive work culture, we extend our focus beyond mere operational aspects to take pride in the profound impact and achievements of our company.
Despite occasional criticisms, our commitment to supporting team members, even beyond their tenure with us, remains unwavering. Recommendations and praises are provided, and the emphasis is consistently placed on the positive impact each team member can make. As a business leader, my approach is not just to manage but to constructively optimize the unique abilities of each team member so we can achieve more together.
Our dedication to values of diversity and inclusivity isn't confined to internal policies but extends to public discussions and actions. Signing the UN Global Compact and actively supporting SDG goals showcase our efforts to become more sustainable. Contributions to communities through our own non-profit organisation amplify our positive impact.
We invest 3.3% of our overhead in technology to have the best possible systems for each team and try to improve them or look for new ones. From monthly office lunch events, to organic fruits delivered each week and more, we do our best to provide the right amenities in a very nice office loft.
In conclusion, while acknowledging the inherent imperfections, there's a resolute commitment to ethical leadership, positive business results, and the nurturing of a startup mentality within the company. Feedback is not just welcomed but considered vital for fostering a culture of continuous improvement. However, it's underscored that public criticism on platforms, impedes constructive dialogue and resolution.