In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader podcast, host Mark Jewell talks with Craig Patty from River Valley Co-op. The conversation revolves around intentional leadership, managing distractions, achieving work-life balance, and effectively retaining talent in the agribusiness sector. Craig shares his personal definition of intention, emphasizing the importance of consistent actions and predictable behaviors both at work and home.
The discussion touches on various challenges faced by leaders in agribusiness, including the need for effective time management and the importance of onboarding processes for new employees. Craig and Mark delve into strategies for maintaining productivity and the role of technology in supporting workforce efficiency. They also discuss the critical aspects of work-life balance, mentoring, and leadership vulnerability.
Key Takeaways:
- Intentional Leadership Principles:
- Consistency and predictability are crucial for effective leadership.
- Setting and sharing schedules helps maintain accountability and manage distractions.
- Work-Life Balance in Agribusiness:
- Importance of recognizing diverse needs and stages of life for employees.
- Strategies to ensure a healthy blend of work and personal life.
- Managing and Retaining Talent:
- Focus on culture fit and comprehensive onboarding processes.
- Providing support and flexibility tailored to individual circumstances.
- Productivity and Time Management:
- Utilize peak performance times for focused tasks.
- Effective use of calendars and technology to block out time for critical activities.
- Vulnerability in Leadership:
- Being authentic and transparent to foster better relationships and productivity.
- Leaders should show weaknesses and seek support from their teams.
Notable Quotes:
- "I think it's really important for me to get really intentional about my actions and make every moment count as much as I possibly can." - Craig Patty
- "Being intentional about how I show up is key; that I'm consistent in that fashion too." - Craig Patty
- "We want to be the employer of choice, and we want people to feel valued." - Craig Patty
- "Everybody's watching our lead, so how we show up each and every day cascades through the organization." - Craig Patty
- "Get comfortable being uncomfortable." - Craig Patty, referencing advice from a mentor.
Stay tuned for more insightful conversations and leadership tips on the Intentional Agribusiness Leader podcast. Listen to the full episode for an in-depth understanding of Craig Patty's leadership philosophy and practical advice on managing an agribusiness team effectively.
