Steve Flook, CEO & President, iHire LLC
Summary of Steve Flook’s leadership interview
- Leadership Mentor/Role Model: Donald Berett, owner and president of a local car dealership. He is humble, a straight shooter, and cares deeply about his people. Steve admired his calm and confident presence.
- Surprise About Leadership Role: The realization that, as a leader, he was seen as an authority figure, even by peers. Initially, he didn’t like it, but later came to understand that people need leadership, vision, and support.
- Biggest Leadership Lesson Learned: The importance of focusing on people and managing talent, not just technical skills. Leading people and getting them to work together is more complex than solving algorithms.
- Best Leadership Decision: Focusing on people, supporting them, and choosing the right talent. This approach helps achieve the best outcomes and fosters collaboration.
- Worst Business Decision: During the pandemic, the company overaccommodated staff demands for higher pay and flexibility, resulting in an imbalance. This mistake taught him to better manage expectations and balance employee needs with business requirements.
- Excitement About the Future of the Company: Steve is optimistic about the future, thanks to significant investments in technology, efficient operations, and a strong core staff. These elements position the company well to weather the challenges ahead.
- Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Focus on creating a psychologically safe environment within the team. Leaders must be humble, communicate openly about their mistakes, and foster an environment where team members feel comfortable challenging ideas and sharing their thoughts.
