Team Members Seize the Initiative
That's exactly the type of enterprise Klein Steel expects from its entire workforce. "Team members are empowered to seize the initiative," explains Todd Zyra, chief operating officer.
It's really more than that. Employees are encouraged to seize the initiative. "Do the right thing in the absence of supervision," is one of the abiding principles at Klein Steel.
If it sounds as though the company places significant responsibility in the hands of all employees, it is because Klein Steel does exactly that. Therefore, hiring the right people into the company is an area of emphasis. Interestingly, however, deep knowledge of steel is not a requirement.
"We look hard for very special people, and we are willing to train," explains John Batiste, president and CEO of Klein Steel.
Where the company is unwilling to bend is in the hiring of people who embrace the company's values, which include accountability, candor, customer satisfaction, integrity, and dignity and respect.
"We are very selective," admits Rob Sihto, manager of human resources. His arsenal of hiring tools was recently augmented with an online assessment that helps identify star performers and candidates who share Klein Steel's values and culture.
"If people get fired from Klein Steel, it is because they don't walk the talk with these values," Batiste says.
On the other hand, the company has implemented a robust talent-planning process for high-potential employees. It includes customized training based both on the individual and company needs.
Klein Steel's focus on hiring and developing the right people has helped drive strong results, including a 10% increase in productivity over the past three years, measured as annual sales per employee, and a 34% reduction in manufacturing cycle time.
Perhaps most importantly, the company's success is driving growth.
See Also:
- Klein Steel Service Aims to be a Less Risky Business
- 2012 IW Best Plants competition: Sign up to receive an application.
