Many years ago, I had a blog called Punk Rock HR, which now happens to be the name of my podcast. The blog was my way of disrupting the status quo within the HR profession. It is still talked about within many HR circles.
I just love a good disruptor. Don’t you?
And, disruption isn’t as disruptive as we think it is. It happens all the time over and over again.
Recently I chatted with Larry Ingrassia about brand disruptors. I find it fascinating that a brand can come in and disrupt the marketplace. Then it’s bought out by the famous brand within that category. Whether it’s Ben and Jerry’s or Dollar Shave Club, they disrupt the market, and then they’re emulated by it.
What does it take to create a brand that will be around for the long term and have value?
Well, for starters, they need to be a little bit smarter about customer service than their competitors. Customer service matters.
Second, they have to be good at solving problems. They create a product that solves a problem their consumer is having. This means speaking with their customers, listening to their needs, and acting appropriately in their best interests.
What can leaders, managers, and HR departments learn from brand disruptors like Dollar Shave Club?
First, take a customer service approach when engaging with your team – support them, encourage them, and listen to them – not just in times of crisis like we are experiencing now, but always. Second, if a team member comes to you with a problem or a solution to a problem, be open to their ideas and suggestions.
So, what strategy will you adopt to become the next billion-dollar HR?
I’m talking about these topics—and why the employee experience is undervalued—in my weekly newsletter. I’m also sharing a video to help you think about your week ahead. You can sign up here.