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Finding and developing the right talent is perhaps the most consequential responsibility any leader faces. Yet many managers approach hiring with minimal preparation, relying on gut instinct rather than proven methodology. This episode John and Greg dive deep into the structured approach that separates successful hiring managers from the rest.

We begin by examining the critical foundation of any successful hire: properly defining the role. This means going beyond dusty job descriptions to analyze current needs, determine specific goals, and identify essential competencies. As we discuss, alignment with stakeholders across your organization ensures the position is properly situated for success before you ever post a job listing.

The conversation then shifts to sourcing strategies, with practical insights on where to find qualified candidates and how to leverage your existing team for high-quality referrals. We explore the advantages of panel interviews over one-on-one conversations, not just for better candidate assessment but for creating built-in support systems once someone is hired. Our detailed breakdown of interview preparation covers everything from creating consistent question sets to setting up appropriate meeting spaces and taking comprehensive notes that protect both you and your organization.

Perhaps most valuable is our extensive discussion of onboarding—the often-neglected final phase of hiring that dramatically impacts retention and productivity. Research shows that employees who experience structured onboarding are significantly more likely to stay with a company for at least three years. We outline a comprehensive 90-day plan that includes pre-boarding activities, first-day orientation, training schedules, regular check-ins, and formal performance reviews.

Whether you're hiring for the first time or looking to improve your existing process, this episode provides the framework and specific tools to find, onboard, and develop the talent your organization needs to thrive. Remember that as a manager, the entire hiring process falls under your responsibility—and getting it right pays dividends for years to come.

Ready to transform your approach to hiring? Reach out to us at wando75.jw@gmail.com with your experiences or questions about implementing these strategies in your organization.

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Presented by John Wandolowski and Greg Powell

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The secret to exceptional team performance isn't found in buzzwords or corporate jargon—it's built through intentional leadership strategies that foster genuine connection. John and Greg dive deep into what truly makes teams work, beyond the superficial activities that many organizations mistake for real team building.

Henry Ford's wisdom frames our discussion: "Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, working together is success." This progression represents the journey every leader must navigate, transforming groups of individuals into cohesive units that achieve remarkable results. We explore practical approaches that work across sports, entertainment, and business contexts, highlighting the common elements that create lasting team cohesion.

Drawing from personal experiences, we share stories about breaking bread together and engaging in competitive cooking challenges—activities that revealed authentic personalities and fostered genuine connections. These examples demonstrate how the most effective team building often comes from creating environments where barriers naturally fall away. We also tackle the reality of remote work, offering creative virtual team building strategies that maintain connection across distances. From online escape rooms to digital art projects, these approaches keep distributed teams engaged and aligned.

Whether you're a new supervisor wondering how to start building your team or an experienced manager looking to strengthen existing relationships, this episode provides actionable insights you can implement immediately. The leadership toolbox we share will help you create an environment where collaboration flourishes, communication flows freely, and your team achieves its highest potential. Ready to transform your approach to team building? Listen now, and don't forget to share your own team building experiences with us at wando75.jw@gmail.com.

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Presented by John Wandolowski and Greg Powell

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Struggling to make your resume stand out? The secret might be hiding in your problem-solving skills.

In this revealing episode, John and Greg dive deep into how effectively showcasing your problem-solving abilities can transform your job search prospects. Drawing from an insightful article on Indeed.com, we break down exactly what employers are looking for when they scan resumes for solution-oriented candidates.

Problem-solving isn't just one skill—it's a constellation of abilities including critical thinking, communication, adaptability, and technical expertise. We explore how to demonstrate these qualities throughout your resume and cover letter, moving beyond generic statements to provide compelling evidence of your capabilities through specific examples and measurable outcomes.

From research and active listening to adaptability and creative thinking, we examine the full spectrum of problem-solving components employers value across all industries. You'll learn practical strategies for highlighting these skills in your application materials, including how to craft an impactful "elevator speech" that concisely communicates your problem-solving prowess in less than two minutes.

The most successful job candidates don't just claim they can solve problems—they prove it with examples that showcase their process: identifying issues, gathering information, generating solutions, implementing changes, and measuring results. By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable insights to transform your resume from a simple list of past experiences into a powerful demonstration of your value as a solution-driven professional.

Ready to revolutionize your job search approach? Listen now, then put these strategies into action. Have a success story about how highlighting your problem-solving skills helped land you an interview or job? Share it with us at wando75.jw@gmail.com or gpowell374@gmail.com—we'd love to hear from you!

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Presented by John Wandolowski and Greg Powell