Leading in UX and Workplace InnovationAs the Chief Work Officer at Xponent21 and co-lead of Ladies that UX Richmond, my leadership roles are deeply connected by a shared focus: creating environments where people can thrive. At Xponent21, I focus on building a work culture that fosters productivity, innovation, and collaboration. Similarly, at Ladies that UX Richmond, I work alongside my…

As Chief Work Officer at Xponent21, I’m tasked with ensuring that our team has the tools, training, and systems in place to allow them to focus on and perform their best work. By creating a work environment that prioritizes the employee experience and fosters optimal performance, we believe that everyone wins – our clients, their customers, our employees, our company, and ultimately, our community.  That sounds idyllic, but how does it work in practice?…

It’s well known that Americans value productivity and work. We are a culture that esteems advancement. We pride ourselves on developing the newest technologies and having the world’s highest GDP. Our cultural fascination with work helps fuel our economy, our social systems, and our innovation. It also gives us the freedom to pursue our version of the American Dream. But for…

What Is Team Culture?My background is in science, specifically biology. So when I think about culture, one definition that instantly comes to mind is “the cultivation of cells in an artificial medium containing nutrients”.A scientist is depicted holding a petri dish that appears to contain a microbial culture grown in agar.In the context of society, culture refers to the customary…

Key Takeaways:When designing the employee experience, creating a psychologically safe environment that encourages team members to share concerns, questions, and ideas is foundational to success. It is more important than ever before to effectively gauge and respond to employee burnout.  Implement conventions and procedures that clarify and streamline internal communications and reduce exposure to non-essential information. Set guidelines to improve…

Key Takeaways: Automation technology and workforce distribution is driving shifts in how managers lead teams. A chief work officer’s primary role focuses on process and aims to improve the work experience for individuals on a team. Xponent21 introduced the role of Chief Work Officer in August of 2021 with the goal of empowering team members to deliver a truly unmatched…

Everyone in America knows what Fridays “feel” like. For some it may seem exciting because the weekend is just around the corner; others may feel a little rebellious because we all know that Friday is a day to take the load off. Our favorite bosses go easy at the office and our favorite teachers play movies in the classroom. Fridays…

If you’re a small business owner, you understand very well just how many things must be balanced in order to build a profitable, sustainable company. In pursuit of success, we’re taught, either through school or the School of Hard Knocks, that the customer must be pleased first and foremost (and as a marketing guy, I’ll tell you they should). But…