Having team members who are proactive in their roles here at the Ripple Companies is a critical ingredient of our companies’ ‘special sauce’. Ownership of our work shows up in a variety of ways – here are great examples: After attending an Orion conference, Lana came back and advocated that we look at some additional modules of our Orion software. She was thinking big as these modules could make our operations more compliant and efficient, while making a substantial impact on all of Johnson Bixby. Ashley was practicing curiosity when she took the initiative to start a wall of Post-its® capturing all the suggestions for improvements during tax season at ITS. Zach proposed and has led a Fantasy Football League that many Ripple Company team members participate in and continue to enjoy. He’s building connection for our teams in a really fun way. We know there are many more examples.
Why talk about ownership?
As team members, we all depend on each other to perform our various functions. This goes even deeper when we think of ourselves as symbiotic teams where we all thrive because each person is doing their best to contribute and add value to the team. This can lead to more opportunities for exciting growth, both personally and as organizations, while also creating the stability that well-managed businesses can provide.
How does it help the companies?
When we individually take ownership of our roles here at the Ripple Companies, we seek to become a well-oiled machine that serves as a powerful competitive force in the marketplace. We become thought leaders with an exceptional reputation. This draws high caliber talent to apply and we, in turn, continue to serve our clients and further our mission as an organization.
How does it help you?
Being proactive and taking ownership of your work leads to higher motivation and more job satisfaction. It also helps accelerate career growth. When you take ownership of your role, you ask questions and suggest improvements which align your work more closely with the goals of the organization. Being part of a successful company reinforces our own personal reputation and can provide a deep sense of pride.
Demonstrating ownership – bring energy!
When we talk about our values, we know it all means more when it is demonstrated. Yes, actions do speak louder than words. Here are some suggestions that demonstrate ownership:
Create a list of ideas to discuss with your manager. Bring these to your Momentum Meetings.
1. Take time to be strategic in your role. Set aside time to work on ways to be more efficient and effective.
2. Understand how your role impacts and integrates within the organization. Can you reach out to a team member to brainstorm ways to make your work flow together more seamlessly.
3. Identify problems and seek solutions.
4. Challenge yourself to keep up on industry trends and educational opportunities for you to become better in your role.
5. As a team member, take responsibility for the team’s responsibilities. For example, a client is a client for all – be proactive in communications, adjust your schedule if needed, support a colleague when they need help and take pride in the work we do.
6. Set everyone up for success because we own this!
Think big!
As we look toward our future together, your Executive Leadership Team (ELT) wants to make sure you know that we wholeheartedly support and welcome the infusion of energy and thought from our team members. This is the core of our value Think Big. We love your proactivity and want you to feel empowered to ask questions and propose new ideas for doing things. It makes us all better!
