Shows
To the CoreEpisode #38: From Contributor to Influencer / Leader - What you need to knowIn this podcast episode, Monte Erritt, Chief People Officer at Vermeer Southeast, delves into the nuances of career pathing. He emphasizes the importance of performance, exposure, and perception as critical for career advancement. Using examples from Vermeer Southeast, the episode highlights how advocacy and relationships outside one's immediate team can create opportunities for growth. Monte encourages team members to take charge of their own development through meaningful relationships and genuine feedback during their one-on-one sessions.
2026-02-2514 min
More than a MachineEpisode #18: Employee Engagement: Insights from Vermeer SoutheastIn this episode, Monte Erritt, Chief People Officer of Vermeer Southeast, discusses the importance of employee engagement and shares the company's strategies for improving it. Through consistent efforts over the past three to four years, Vermeer Southeast achieved 95% employee participation and significantly improved engagement scores by focusing on leadership commitment, effective feedback, and employee development. Monte highlights the necessity of clear expectations, the right job fit, and monthly one-on-one meetings, emphasizing Gallup’s Q12 program as a foundational driver for engagement success.
2026-02-0234 minMore than a MachineEpisode #17: The Lead Like Jesus organization In this podcast episode, Monte Erritt speaks with Steven Rubado, the President and CEO of Lead Like Jesus. They explore the organization’s mission to integrate Christ-centered leadership principles into modern workplaces and ministries. Steve shares the unique journey of co-founder Ken Blanchard, a renowned business author who discovered the parallels between his leadership model in 'The One Minute Manager' and the ways of Jesus. Through over two decades of leadership across various sectors, Steve discusses how this approach fosters individual and organizational transformation by balancing valuable relationships and measurable results.
2026-01-0648 minTo the CoreEpisode #37: Unleashing Leadership: NTL's & TL's At Vermeer Southeast, leadership transcends official titles, encompassing every employee as a potential influence within the organization. This podcast explores the company's unique perspective on leadership, differentiating between 'title leaders' (TLs) and 'non-title leaders' (NTLs). This approach underscores a core belief: leadership is an opportunity for all, not just those with designated roles. It's about influence, posture, and engagement in day-to-day activities. By empowering individuals to lead from their position, Vermeer Southeast harnesses the collective energy of its team, promoting a culture where each member's contributions are valued and impactful.
2025-12-2908 minTo the CoreEpisode #36: Receiving Feedback with two simple words In this episode Monte Erritt, Chief People Officer at Vermeer Southeast, sheds light on the transformative power of receiving feedback with gratitude. He discusses the simple yet effective method of responding to feedback with 'Thank you,' and how this approach can significantly enhance personal and professional growth. Monte emphasizes the importance of assuming positive intent and viewing feedback as a valuable gift. By fostering a culture of acceptance, individuals can nurture trust and ensure continuous development, transforming feedback from a potential threat into a strategic tool for success.
2025-12-1510 minTo the CoreEpisode #35: Mastering Holiday Conversations: The Power of Being InterestedIn this episode, Monte Erritt dives into how holiday gatherings can be transformed from awkward obligations to rich learning grounds for leadership. The key isn't being interesting, but being genuinely interested. Backed by research from Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, Monte explains how curiosity not only makes you more likable but also boosts your influence and perceived competence. He offers actionable strategies like asking open-ended questions and interacting with new people. The goal is to make others feel seen and valued, fostering connections that are both memorable and impactful.
2025-11-2509 minMore than a MachineEpisode #16: Never Lose a Customer Again - Part 2In this episode of 'More Than a Machine,' Monte Erritt and Joey Coleman embark on a journey to dissect customer experience dynamics. The episode focuses on understanding genuine customer feedback, specifically questioning the validity of phrases like 'I'm fine' as indicators of satisfaction. They dive into practical ways businesses can enhance onboarding experiences, shifting the emphasis from unwieldy manuals to interactive training. By discussing Joey Coleman's insights, Monte highlights the importance of asking probing questions and tailoring interactions—like vehicle purchase follow-ups—to actual customer usage, enabling companies to bridge gaps in service and improve overall customer experiences.
2025-10-261h 02More than a MachineEpisode #15: Never Lose a Customer Again: Interview with book author Joey ColemanIn this episode of More Than Machine, Monte Erritt interviews Joey Coleman, an expert in customer and employee retention. Coleman, author of 'Never Lose a Customer Again' and 'Never Lose an Employee Again', shares his insights on turning temporary clients into loyal followers through impactful experiences. He emphasizes the importance of the first 100 days in a customer's journey, a period where most businesses falter by losing a significant percentage of clients. Drawing from his diverse career, Coleman combines storytelling with actionable strategies to help organizations around the globe maintain their customer base and increase profitability. You will NOT want...
2025-10-0754 minMore than a MachineEpisode #14: Emotional Intelligence with Dr. Travis Bradberry In this compelling podcast episode, Monte Erritt interviews Dr. Travis Bradberry, a leading voice in emotional intelligence and author of the best selling book, The New Emotional Intelligence. They discuss the profound impact of EQ on personal and professional success, highlighting how it drives 61% of performance. Listeners will learn about the four key EQ skills: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. This engaging conversation offers invaluable guidance for anyone seeking to elevate their leadership and personal growth.
2025-09-1145 minMore than a MachineEpisode #13: Elite Mindset: DJ Bleisath's Journey from Gridiron to BoardroomIn this episode of 'More Than a Machine,' Monte Erritt interviews DJ Bleisath about his extraordinary journey from high school football to the NFL, and finally to success in the business world. DJ shares insights into developing an elite mindset, detailing how hard work and a commitment to outworking others helped him overcome challenges and setbacks. He credits his achievements, including a world championship with the Chicago Rush Arena Football team, to a strong team culture and personal resilience. By emphasizing accountability and collective belief, Bleisath offers valuable lessons on leadership and personal growth beyond sports.
2025-08-2533 minTo the CoreEpisode #34: Working Genius Bonus episode......Discover Your Pairing!In this episode of the 'To The Core' podcast, Monte Erritt Vermeer Southeast's Chief People Officer, dives into the intriguing world of Working Genius pairings within their company. He explores a range of genius pairings, each representing distinct approaches to work, from 'Creative Dreamers' to 'Insightful Collaborators'. Monte highlights how different pairings contribute to the company's success, offering insights into how these combinations foster innovation, efficiency, and team dynamics. It's an exploration of how understanding these dynamics can lead to better team synergy and performance, providing a fresh perspective on workplace productivity.
2025-08-1121 minTo the CoreEpisode #33: The Power of the Working Genius session 2 In this episode of the To the Core Podcast, Monte Erritt takes listeners on a journey through the concepts of the working genius framework.
2025-07-3123 minTo the CoreEpisode #32: The Power of the Working Genius In this podcast episode, Monte Erritt, Chief People Officer at Vermeer Southeast, revisits the Working Genius model. The assessment has empowered over 200+ employees at Vermeer Southeast, aiding in self-awareness and team collaboration. Monte discusses the value of self-awareness in personal development and its role in overcoming the Peter Principle, where individuals get promoted beyond their competencies. Highlighting the importance of maintaining common language and feedback culture, he emphasizes the significance of understanding personal work sweet spots to avoid burnout and create a positive work environment. The episode promises insights into how understanding personal and team dynamics leads to workplace...
2025-07-1723 minTo the CoreEpisode #31: Career Path Tips In this insightful podcast episode, Monte Erritt from Vermeer Southeast shares valuable advice on effective career pathing. He emphasizes the importance of excelling in your current role while simultaneously preparing for future opportunities. By allocating most of your efforts to mastering your existing role, and progressively dedicating time to prepare for the next steps, you can build a strong foundation for advancement. Long-term goals should also be part of your career planning. Monte's guidance is clear: take ownership of your professional development, use time wisely to hone skills, and leverage available resources for success.
2025-06-0910 minTo the CoreEpisode #30: Transform Feedback with the SBI ModelIn this episode of the To the Core podcast, Monte Erritt introduces the SBI model, a feedback framework developed by the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL). SBI, which stands for Situation, Behavior, and Impact, helps leaders provide specific, actionable feedback without causing defensiveness. By focusing on observable behavior and its effects, the model encourages clear communication, reducing assumptions and promoting growth. Monte emphasizes the importance of applying SBI in various workplace scenarios, from coaching technicians to rewarding sales reps, and highlights its role in fostering a culture of trust and accountability across Vermeer Southeast’s branches.
2025-05-2709 minMore than a Machine#12: Beyond the Court: Pat Summitt's Legacy of LeadershipIn this episode of the More Than a Machine podcast, host Monte Erritt continues his conversation with Tyler Summitt, son of the legendary Pat Summitt. They explore the life of Pat beyond her renowned career as the Tennessee Lady Vols basketball coach. Tyler shares intimate stories about his mom's loving nature at home and how she juggled the demands of coaching with being a devoted mother. They delve into Pat's battle with early-onset Alzheimer's and how her principles fueled resilience in the face of adversity. Tyler reveals how his mother’s dedication to her team and family embodies valuable le...
2025-04-2128 minMore than a Machine#11: Pat Summitt's Legacy of Leadership In this podcast, Monte interviews Tyler Summitt, son of legendary Tennessee Vols women's basketball coach Pat Summitt, to uncover the leadership philosophies passed down from his mother. Tyler shares personal stories, like when Pat was relentless in recruiting despite being in labor, underscoring her tenacity. He highlights the 'Definite Dozen,' principles his mother lived by, instilling values like respect and communication in him. Their discussion showcases the enduring influence of Pat Summitt's visionary coaching and leadership style.
2025-03-2427 minMore than a MachineEpisode 10: Lead Like a Coach: Transforming Workplace EngagementIn this episode of the More Than a Machine podcast, host Monte Erritt speaks with Roy Heintz, a former college basketball coach and current business leader at Reliable Roofing. The discussion centers on Heintz's book, 'Lead Like a Coach,' and explores how sports coaching principles can stimulate employee engagement and productivity in the workplace.
2025-02-141h 16To the CoreEpisode #29: CRM Training / Agenda & Misc items The focus of the training is the in-depth analysis of the Agenda, Calendar, and Proactive Demos. Monte emphasises using the agenda page daily and setting strategic tasks to maximize time and resources. He also urges a review of the calendar to avoid scheduling an unrealistic number of tasks for a single day, resulting in a more reliable and systematically organized CRM.
2025-01-0318 minTo the CoreEpisode #28: CRM Training on DEALS Monte, VP of Employee Development at Vermeer Southeast, discusses in-depth how CRM data entries, when done accurately, can drastically improve sales forecasting methods and the profitability of the company. This episode emphasises how to handle fields like 'expected close date', 'probability', and 'source'. 'Monte also reemphasized the concept of being 'good stewards' of company information.
2025-01-0322 minTo the CoreEpisode #27: CRM Training / Dashboard & Companies The host, Monte, gives his listeners an insight into the history of CRM at Vermeer Southeast, highlighting the motivation that led to its adoption. In the late 1990s, as a sales rep, he and his colleague Scott saw the benefits of using CRM to gain a competitive edge. They embraced the technology, purchasing laptops and CRM software, in order to streamline their operations and improve sales.
2025-01-0346 minTo the CoreEpisode #26: Behind the Scenes with VP of Aftermarket at Vermeer Southeast: Keith Spicer Host Monte Erritt interviews Keith Spicer, the VP of Aftermarket at Vermeer Southeast. They talk about their working relationship, Keith's early life, and his journey from football to serving in the Air Force, to his career at Vermeer Southeast.
2024-11-2750 minMore than a MachineEpisode #9: Coachability and Its Role in Corporate CultureMonte Erritt discusses the idea that some employees are more open to change and feedback than others, being more willing to alter their own practices. This session aims to address why some people may be resistant to coaching and learning and to understand what makes them 'uncoachable'.
2024-11-1916 minTo the CoreEpisode #25: Making Goal Setting Sexy In this podcast, host Monte Erritt from Vermeer Southeast, tries to make goal setting more appealing and engaging. He introduces three frameworks: SMART, FAST, and DUMB. All designed to work together in achieving goal setting.
2024-11-0415 minTo the CoreEpisode #24: Unlocking Excellence: Insights from Horst SchulzeThis podcast episode explores the remarkable career of Horst Schulze, the former president and COO of Ritz Carlton, known for his profound influence on the service industry. Monte Erritt and Todd Versteeg share key takeaways from Schulze's speech, focusing on his principles of excellence, high intent, and empowerment. Schulze's journey from a 14-year-old hotel employee to a multi-billionaire embodies his commitment to purpose-driven leadership. Central to Schulze's philosophy is the mantra of treating everyone with respect, emphasizing that customers seek not just a product but a positive emotional experience. His story is an inspiration for both personal and professional...
2024-10-1417 minMore than a MachineEpisode #8: The AI RevolutionIn this episode, Monte Erritt and Nick Santiago dive deep into the transformative power of AI in today's business world. Nick, the Director of IT at Vermeer Southeast, elaborates on the profound shifts brought by large language models (LLMs) and the transition from narrow to general AI. He also demystifies common AI terms and explains the innovative impact of Chat GPT, the product that saw the highest adoption rate in history, reaching a million users in just five days.
2024-09-3048 minTo the CoreEpisode #23: A.I. Do's and Dont's with Nick Santiago In this episode, Nick Santiago, Director of IT at Vermeer Southeast, discusses AI's growing presence in the workplace. He highlighted both the risks and benefits of integrating AI, emphasizing the need for cautious use to protect company and customer data. Santiago also suggested practical applications, such as improving interview questions and using AI for creative brainstorming. Overall, he stressed the importance of balancing AI advancements with human authenticity to ensure employees continue to grow and develop true expertise.
2024-09-1625 minTo the CoreEpisode #22: From Paper Shredding to Leading Operations: Patrick McCollum’s JourneyIn this episode, Patrick McCollum, the current Director of Operations at Vermeer Southeast, shares his incredible journey from humble beginnings in Georgia to a prominent leadership role. With candid conversation on his early years, educational aspirations, and navigating the challenging job market of 2009, Patrick's story is a testament to perseverance and faith. Despite multiple rejections, his unwavering belief led him to a fulfilling career with Vermeer Southeast, balancing both his professional endeavors and a cherished family life.
2024-09-0451 minTo the CoreEpisode #21. Close the GapIn this episode, Monte Erritt discusses a critical concept he calls 'the gap of execution,' which is the difference between what we know and what we actually do. The key to growth and success, he argues, is not necessarily learning new things but executing on what we already know consistently. By closing this execution gap, individuals and organizations can significantly improve their performance and potential.
2024-08-2606 minTo the CoreEpisode #20: FAQ's of the Q12 Employee Engagement SurveyIn this episode, Monte Erritt, VP of Employee Development at Vermeer Southeast, discusses the upcoming Gallup Employee Engagement Survey. He addresses frequently asked questions, emphasizing the survey's role in enhancing workplace culture and environment. Monte reassures employees about the confidentiality of their responses and highlights the importance of honest feedback. He also explains how aggregated results are used to identify improvement areas. Employees are encouraged to participate and rate their current work environment accurately to help the company continue striving for excellence.
2024-08-0208 minTo the CoreEpisode #19: API: A Game Changer for RelationshipsIn this episode, Monte Erritt, VP of Employee Development at Vermeer Southeast, discusses the importance of API in various aspects of life, including friendships, work relationships, parenting, and marriages. Monte highlights how API can serve as an effective intermediary for better communication, much like its counterpart in the software world. He illustrates how this simple yet challenging mindset shift can transform interactions and reduce misunderstandings. By consistently applying API, individuals can foster trust, reduce stress, and build stronger, more supportive relationships both at work and at home.
2024-07-2210 minTo the CoreEpisode #18: That's What we Do!Edwin Breeden, the director of parts at Vermeer Southeast, shares his journey and experiences. From his upbringing and moving states to working at Men's Warehouse, Edwin highlights the memorable moments and challenges that shaped his professional path. Edwin emphasizes the importance of empowering the team, embracing feedback, and prioritizing tasks effectively. His passion for the company is evident as he explains the significant impact Vermeer Southeast has in building infrastructure and creating experiences. Edwin's leadership style focuses on fostering growth and development among employees, and he finds great reward in watching people progress within the organization. Overall, Edwin brings...
2024-06-1449 minTo the CoreEpisode #17: The People Pile In this episode, the focus is on Brian Davey's career journey from starting as a shop support position to becoming a regional operational manager. The host emphasizes the qualities that helped Brian climb out of the people pile and achieve success. These include mastering every role, demonstrating a passion for excellence, being unselfish, working hard, going the extra mile, practicing patience, being willing to make sacrifices, and continuously growing and maturing through challenges. The host challenges listeners to reflect on their own career progress and offers practical tips for getting out of the people pile.
2024-05-3017 minTo the CoreEpisode #16: The Formula for Success: EX x EE = CXIn this podcast, the VP of employee development at Vermeer Southeast introduces a simple yet powerful formula: EX x EE = CX. This formula highlights the significance of employee experience (EX) and engagement (EE) in shaping customer experience (CX). The discussion delves into how Vermeer Southeast prioritizes providing an exceptional employee experience, from onboarding to leadership and benefits. Employee engagement is emphasized as a pivotal factor, with the level of engagement determining the quality of customer interactions. The message underscores the importance of all team members contributing to creating a positive employee and customer experience, emphasizing the critical role each...
2024-04-2605 minMore than a MachineEpisode 7: The Power of Self Awareness Self awareness is a crucial quality for leaders, enabling them to understand their strengths, weaknesses, and habits that affect their interactions with others. Reflecting on a conversation about self awareness between Monte Erritt, VP of employee development, and CEO Scott Coley at Vermeer Southeast, this podcast transcript explores the definition of self awareness and its importance. Self awareness as a leader helps in understanding personal traits, strengths, weaknesses, and how one's behavior impacts others. The ability to adjust and adapt one's style to achieve desired results is key to effective leadership. Additionally, self awareness helps in building the right...
2024-04-0149 minTo the CoreEpisode #15: The Peter Principle: Avoiding Incompetence in PromotionsThe Peter Principle, which states that employees are often promoted beyond their competency, can have significant consequences in organizations. This podcast explores the concept and highlights two ways it can happen: based on skill set or personal enjoyment. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in avoiding the Peter Principle and suggests that organizations foster a culture of feedback and communication. Professional development opportunities, job rotations, and cross-training are also discussed as ways to minimize the chances of promoting employees beyond their competency. The podcast stresses the significance of open communication to identify alternative career paths and prevent employee turnover...
2024-03-1815 minMore than a MachineEpisode 6: Unveiling the Success Secrets of Vermeer Southeast's Top Sales RepIn this fascinating podcast episode, Bryan Jewell, the number one sales rep for Vermeer Southeast in 2023, shares the secrets to his success. From building solid relationships to consistently investing in self-improvement, Brian provides valuable insights into his 18-year journey in sales. He emphasizes the importance of being coachable, maintaining a positive attitude, and striving for excellence in every aspect of the job. Bryan also discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing work and family life. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the culture and team spirit at Vermeer Southeast that have kept him loyal to the company. This inspiring interview...
2024-03-0147 minTo the CoreEpisode #14: Choosing EngagementThe podcast emphasizes the impact of different levels of employee engagement, from actively disengaged to engaged employees. It encourages individuals to reflect on their role in creating a positive work environment and offers guidance on improving engagement. The transcript also underscores the significance of communication, teamwork, and personal accountability in fostering engagement and unity within the organization.
2024-02-2215 minMore than a MachineEpisode #5: From Owners to ESOPVermeer Southeast, a company founded in 1967, underwent a major transition of ownership when it decided to convert to an ESOP. In this podcast episode, the previous owners, Kris DenBesten and Todd Versteeg, discuss their journey and why they chose an ESOP. They share their experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of preserving the company's culture and rewarding the hard work of employees. The decision to sell to an ESOP was a careful and thoughtful one, taking several years of planning and consideration. The owners recognized that an ESOP would not only provide financial benefits, but also ensure the continuation...
2024-02-0336 minMore than a MachineEpisode 4: The Importance of Good Cyber Hygiene: Insights from an IT DirectorIn this podcast episode, Monte Erritt, VP of Employee Development, interviews Nick Santiago, Director of IT, about the importance of having good cyber hygiene in today's digital landscape. They discuss the prevalence of cybercrime, the high cost of cyberattacks, and the significant role played by the human element in security breaches. The conversation highlights the need for organizations to prioritize security measures and adopt best practices recommended by industry standards such as NIST, CIS, and CISA. Emphasizing the importance of password health and two-factor authentication, the podcast provides actionable steps for individuals and companies to minimize the risk of...
2024-01-0825 minTo the CoreEpisode 13: Q12...This last year, I have had opportunties at work to learn and growLearning and development opportunities at work play a crucial role in employee engagement and job satisfaction. This episode explores the significance of continual growth in a role and the ways it distinguishes a career from just a job. Employees need to feel challenged and supported to learn and progress, allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively. The episode also discusses three key strategies for challenging employees to learn and grow: fostering a culture of continuous learning, setting short-term stretch goals, and creating career path plans aligned with individual strengths and aspirations. Managers can empower employees by identifying learning opportunities...
2023-12-2810 minTo the CoreEpisode 12: Q11...In the last six months, someone at work has talked to me about my progressThis episode discusses the importance of managers regularly communicating with their employees about their progress. It emphasizes the need for honest and consistent feedback, avoiding micromanagement, and focusing on employee strengths. Managers who serve as coaches motivate and guide employees, helping them understand their growth and contribution to the company. Regular feedback not only benefits the employee but also impacts productivity and safety. The episode highlights three key characteristics of effective performance feedback: strength-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented. It suggests questions managers can ask to gauge an employee's progress and emphasizes the significance of ongoing discussions rather than just formal evaluations...
2023-12-2820 minTo the CoreEpisode 11: Q10...I have a best friend at workHaving a best friend at work is a strong predictor of employee engagement and job satisfaction. This episode delves into the controversial question of whether friendships are necessary in the workplace and highlights Gallup's research that supports the positive impact of having a best friend. The transcript presents thought-provoking questions that challenge preconceived notions and emphasizes the importance of measuring engagement. It discusses the characteristics of well-connected teams: trust, teamwork, and loyalty. Managers are encouraged to create opportunities for friendship-building events and social gatherings, as well as facilitate open conversations about improving engagement and building trust. The transcript also emphasizes...
2023-12-2816 minTo the CoreEpisode 10: Q9: My fellow team members are committed to doing quality workThis podcast episode emphasizes the significance of team commitment to quality work. The transcript discusses the frustrations that arise when there are team members who slack off while others put in extra effort. Trust and mutual respect among coworkers are vital for teamwork and great team performance. Ensuring that all team members are committed to the same standards is crucial for building an engaged workforce. Managers play a significant role in improving team talent and creating a culture where quality is a priority. Hiring the right people for the team, defining quality standards, and fostering a culture of accountability are...
2023-12-2815 minTo the CoreEpisode 9: Q8...The mission or purpose of my company makes me feel my job is important The mission or purpose of a company plays a crucial role in making employees feel that their job is important. Meaningful work is often a stronger motivator than money, and believing in what your employer does creates a connection to the organization's mission. Great managers help cultivate this feeling by clarifying the mission and explaining its relevance to employees' work. Without understanding how their job contributes to a higher purpose, employees lack motivation. Millennial employees particularly value meaningful work and are more likely to stay with a company they believe provides it. Companies with mission-driven teams experience fewer safety incidents...
2023-12-2209 minTo the CoreEpisode 8: Q7...At work, my opinions seem to countIn this episode, we discuss the importance of valuing employee opinions...Listening to and giving feedback on all ideas helps employees feel heard and appreciated, creating a greater sense of inclusion and self-worth. By asking for and considering employee input, managers can make better decisions and achieve better results. We provide three key ways to create a culture of idea sharing, including being open to all team members' opinions, actively seeking feedback, and providing responsive feedback. Managers are encouraged to regularly ask themselves important questions about their approach to employee input and to actively listen and follow up on employee...
2023-12-2214 minTo the CoreEpisode 7: Q6...There is someone at work who encourages my developmentThe podcast episode discusses the significance of encouraging employee development in driving engagement. The Gallup Engagement survey questions revealed that a lack of growth and career advancement opportunities is the leading cause of employees leaving a company. Personal and professional development require intentional effort from both managers and employees. Managers play a crucial role in actively investing in their employees' growth and success, fostering a coaching environment, and providing coaching, exposure, and challenging work environments. Regular development conversations, held at least twice a year, help managers understand their team members' growth goals and provide the necessary support. On the other...
2023-12-2214 minTo the CoreEpisode 6: Q5....My supervisor, or someone at work, seems to care about me as a personIn episode six of 'To the Core,' the importance of caring in the workplace is discussed, with a focus on the Gallup employee engagement Q5 survey question, 'Does my supervisor or someone at work seem to care about me as a person?' This element of engagement plays a crucial role in creating a positive employee experience, which in turn leads to a great customer experience. Caring is deeply ingrained in the core values of the organization, and is a determining factor in hiring and promotion decisions. The podcast highlights Gallup's research showing that employees leave companies not...
2023-12-2213 minTo the CoreEpisode 5: Q4...In the last 7 days, I have received recognition or praise for doing good work.Recognition and praise play a crucial role in employee engagement. They motivate employees, foster a sense of accomplishment, and make individuals feel valued for their work. Additionally, recognition serves as a powerful tool for reinforcing desired behaviors to other employees. However, many managers struggle with giving enough recognition due to various reasons such as discomfort, fear of diminishing productivity, or lack of awareness. This episode delves into the importance of recognition and explores strategies to overcome barriers. It emphasizes the need for authentic, meaningful, and motivating recognition that is individualized, deserved, specific, and timely. Creating a recognition-rich culture involves praising...
2023-12-2215 minTo the CoreEpisode 4: Q3...At work, I have the opportunity to do what I do best every dayCreating a work environment where employees have the opportunity to do what they do best every day is a crucial factor in employee engagement and retention. This episode highlights the importance of aligning talents and skills with job roles for maximum success. It explores how managers can help employees identify and embrace their strengths, and provides practical tips for facilitating ongoing dialogue and development. The transcript emphasizes the value of self-awareness and encourages both managers and employees to actively seek ways to leverage talents and create a fulfilling employee experience. By recognizing individual strengths, harnessing them effectively, and building strong...
2023-12-1914 minTo the CoreEpisode 3: Q2...Do I have the materials and equipment I need to do my work rightIn this episode of the To the Core podcast, the focus is on Question 2 (Q2) of the Q12 employee engagement survey: Do I have the materials and equipment I need to do my work right? The episode explores the importance of providing employees with the necessary tools and equipment to minimize stress and frustration in the workplace. It emphasizes how Q1 (clear expectations) and Q2 are fundamental building blocks for overall employee engagement. The host shares insights from Gallup research, citing that only 40% of workers globally strongly agree they have the right materials and equipment. The episode also highlights the...
2023-12-1910 minTo the CoreEpisode 2: Q1......I know what is expected of me at workKnowing what is expected of employees at work is crucial for fostering engagement and productivity. This podcast episode explores the significance of clear expectations in the workplace and provides insights for both managers and employees. It emphasizes the role of managers in consistently communicating expectations, clarifying employees' roles, and highlighting the value they bring to the team. Additionally, it encourages employees to take initiative and proactively discuss their expectations with their managers. Through effective communication and understanding, organizations can create a culture of engagement and empower their employees to excel in their roles.
2023-12-1209 minTo the CoreEpisode 1: Brick Layers The focus of today's episode is the employee engagement survey, highlighting its purpose and benefits. The survey, conducted every six months, aims to improve the workplace environment, culture, and identify areas to invest in. It also allows the company to gauge employee engagement levels and determine the number of actively disengaged, not engaged, and engaged employees. The importance of engagement is emphasized, as engaged employees are happier, more productive, and more likely to stay. The story of building the Notre Dame Cathedral serves as an analogy to inspire employees to think like owners and contribute to a larger mission.
2023-11-2212 minMore than a MachineEpisode 3: Navigating Challenges & Lessons LearnedIn this episode of the More Than a Machine podcast, Kris and Scott, former and current CEOs of Vermeer Southeast, discuss the valuable lessons they learned from navigating downturns. They emphasize the importance of focusing on what truly matters during tough times, such as prioritizing relationships, maintaining a positive yet honest outlook, and investing in employee training. They also discuss how the company evolved from its entrepreneurial roots to a leadership-focused organization, with an emphasis on serving both customers and employees. Kris and Scott share their pride in the company's strong culture and the value it brings beyond just...
2023-10-3141 minMore than a MachineMore than a Machine: The Journey to CEO: Insights from Kris DenBesten and Scott ColeyIn this podcast episode, Kris DenBesten and Scott Coley, past and present CEOs of VSE, share insights on their personal journeys to leadership. They discuss their backgrounds, family life, and hobbies. Both CEOs emphasize the importance of hard work, doing the right thing, and caring for their people. Kris highlights the value of his father and Mel Bokhoven, the original founders of VSE, and how they taught her essential lessons in entrepreneurship. Scott admires their teamwork and unity, building a strong foundation for the company. As they transitioned into their CEO roles, they discuss the challenges and responsibilities that...
2023-10-0733 minMore than a MachineMore than a Machine: Bringing the Podcast Vision to Life with Scott ColeyIn this episode, we dive into the origins and purpose behind the More Than a Machine podcast with Scott Coley, CEO of Vermeer Southeast. They discuss the power of podcasts as an efficient way of sharing valuable content and communication, especially for busy individuals who prefer listening over reading. Scott shares his vision of the podcast as a platform to bring leadership insights to the entire company and highlights the opportunity for interviews, series, and feedback from employees. The significance of the podcast's name, More Than a Machine, is also explored, as it reflects the dealership's commitment to going...
2023-09-2313 min