Situation

Recognizing the importance of having great systems and processes in place to grow at a high rate, EnergyCo invested in five key methodologies to ensure success: Six Sigma, Theory of Constraints, Taguchi, Chasm Marketing, and Topgrading®. The company selected Topgrading over other methodologies because of its proven track-record of success. At the time EnergyCo hired ghSMART, the CEO believed only 20% of his team were A Players, and they were scattered across three locations, including some in Germany. He was deeply concerned that the company would fall short of its aggressive growth goals if it failed to get the right people in place at all levels of the organization.

Solution

ghSMART worked directly with the CEO to create a comprehensive program for implementing Topgrading in the company. First, ghSMART helped the CEO build his executive team using SmartAssessment® and SmartFeedback®. Meanwhile, ghSMART hosted a series of Topgrading workshops to educate the entire management team on the core principles of the process. Next, ghSMART helped design comprehensive hiring, performance management, and talent review processes. Today, internal facilitators trained on the methods use the A Method for Hiring materials to train all new managers on the process.

Result

The CEO reports that the current team is composed of at least 80-90% A Players and growing, up from 20% at the end of 2005. The company will double revenue this year and is on track to meet its aggressive operating targets.