Welcome to the Culture Edit.
As the year winds down the dreaded (for some) performance calibration season is upon us.
Yes, it’s about evaluating outcomes, but it can also be an opportunity to align on priorities, recognize contributions, and prepare for the upcoming year.
We have some questions for you to consider when navigating the process. These come from our years of practical experience leading people functions, as well as insights gained from client work and extensive research into performance management best practices.
To ensure your approach is impactful, consider asking yourself and your leadership team these key questions:
· Clarity: Did we provide clear goals and expectations for every team member this year?
· Impact: Who delivered outcomes that exceeded their role's scope, and how did those efforts advance the organization?
· Growth: Have we recognized and supported those who showed meaningful growth, even if their results weren’t perfect?
· Equity: Are our assessments free from unconscious bias? Are we valuing diverse contributions appropriately?
· Feedback: Did we provide timely, actionable feedback throughout the year—or are surprises surfacing now?
· Future Focus: How can this calibration process inform our development plans for individuals and the organization?
Performance calibration isn’t just about closing the book on 2024—it’s about setting the stage for a stronger 2025.
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Ep. 068 – Duncan Ridge Ultra and Remembering Kelly
A special one-on-one during Thanksgiving week, as Nikki and Chad chat about her experience running the Duncan Ridge Ultra and remembering their friend Kelly Raymond Pizzuti.
They also cover corporate math for the holidays, backcountry comms, confusing Black Friday strategy, Jaguar’s weird AI-generated rebrand, and Manifesting the word of the year.
Spotify or anywhere you get your podcasts.