Scope for creativity Contribute ideas, take responsibility
What is it about?
We don't just talk. We do. Instead of tough coordination rounds or hierarchical behavior, we encourage people to get things done. In other words, we want people who know what they want and what they can do. They see challenges as an opportunity to contribute their knowledge and experience. We give our employees a lot of creative freedom and a lot of support. In return, we want professionalism, a sense of responsibility, curiosity, a desire for further development and, last but not least, agility. Because if a mistake happens (which is not a bad thing, we see ourselves as a learning organization), then we adapt our actions. So, we also change course sometimes—if it makes sense and leads to better results. Those who cling ironclad to structures, look for faults in others or preach "we've always done it that way" will probably not be satisfied with us. Quite simply, because our work brings with it a certain dynamism that is always goal-oriented. Instead of focusing on problems, we want to direct our energy towards solutions. And the best solutions, we are convinced, are achieved as a team. In this way, we use the creative leeway not only for our own benefit, but for the benefit of the team and the greater whole.
Typical case
As a software developer, Max works closely with product management. He thinks that's great, because it means he's not programming in his quiet cubbyhole, but is part of a project team that's developing something new. He is close to the product and can contribute his ideas. This makes his working day varied and challenges him again and again. He never gets bored; on the contrary, he is constantly learning new things. He is particularly proud of the fact that it was his—initially unorthodox—solution proposal that led to the product idea, which was quickly implemented. Being able to think so freely and outside-the-box is not welcome everywhere, Max is aware of that. And he is already looking forward to the next project.
What do I get out of it?
- You have a lot of professional freedom, because we trust in your expertise.
- If you want to actively contribute, you've come to the right place. You are definitely not a number—after all, we are not a large corporation, but rather a strong medium-sized company where your contribution is seen and valued.
- Decisions are made quickly at our company. This means that we trust in competence. But it also means that you take responsibility for your actions.
- You can and should contribute your ideas and wishes—even if they seem a bit unconventional at first glance. We try to find a good solution for everything and to be innovative.
- You are allowed to make mistakes; we just ask that you learn from them. Just as we all learn from mistakes—even from those made by colleagues—in order to become better and better.
How does it work?
- You are part of a team and have an idea or a proposed solution for a challenge? Then you discuss it with your specialist colleagues.
- A feasibility check follows within the team to determine whether an idea should be pursued further or not.
- For smaller ideas, decisions are made quickly within the team.
- If your idea is larger and could have a significant impact on the product, for example, then you present it.
- The presentation is about the idea, not about following a defined process. Unlike larger companies that have formal and lengthy decision-making processes (planning, review, decision), we focus on understanding your proposed solution. That's why a decision is also made within days or weeks, not months.
