In the latest episode of the “Courage to Lead” interview series, Allan Sicard engages in a compelling conversation with Michelle O’Keeffe the CEO of Engaging IO. This episode delves into the nuances of leadership, the creation of supportive and inclusive work environments, and Michelle’s personal journey that has shaped her leadership style. Engaging IO has been recognised as one of the top ten Great places to work in Australia for 2024-2025 and among the top three in the tech sector, making Michelle’s insights particularly valuable for leaders and aspiring leaders alike.
Rigorous Evaluation Process
Michelle begins by discussing the rigorous process that Engaging IO underwent to achieve its recognition as a top workplace. The company had to complete a detailed questionnaire about its business practices, and all staff members were surveyed to provide feedback on various aspects of the organisation. This feedback mechanism is crucial as it allows employees to express their opinions in a safe environment, ultimately helping the company identify areas for improvement.
Celebrating Achievements
In the first year of participating in this recognition program, Engaging IO was awarded a spot in the top 20 in the micro category in Australia. Michelle O’Keeffe recalls the excitement of celebrating this achievement with her team during town hall meetings. They even have a fun tradition of giving out Lego figurines as awards, which adds a personal touch to their recognition efforts. The award served as validation for the team, who already felt they were in a good place, but it also attracted external interest, with many people wanting to join the organisation.
Attracting and Retaining Talent -Diverse Recruitment Channels
Michelle O’Keeffe explains that potential candidates approach Engaging IO through various channels, including personal LinkedIn messages, referrals from current employees, and applications through their website. The Human Resource and Culture Manager, Fraser, conducts interviews even when they are not actively hiring, maintaining a list of pre-qualified candidates to facilitate quick hiring when needed.
Employee Development and Retention
Michelle O’Keeffe emphasises the importance of employee development and retention. She believes that success is not solely defined by retaining employees but also by helping them achieve their personal career goals, even if that means moving on to other organisations. She shares an example of Fraser, who left the company for a time but returned when a new role suited him perfectly. Michelle expresses her commitment to mentoring individuals, regardless of where they end up working, as long as they are able to pursue their dreams.
Leadership Philosophy -Early Influences – Michelle O’Keeffe
Michelle O’Keeffe reflects on her early experiences with leadership, noting that some of her most influential moments occurred outside the workplace. She recalls a progressive leader from her childhood, Father Peter McGrath, who emphasised kindness and compassion, challenging the norms of the Catholic Church. This experience shaped her understanding of leadership as a courageous act of being true to oneself and advocating for others.
Personal Background – Michelle O’Keeffe
Michelle reveals her background in qigong, a Chinese martial art focused on harnessing internal energy. She trained for 15 years under a grandmaster, which has given her insights into energy and healing. This practice, along with her journey into Tibetan Buddhism, has influenced her perspective on life, death, and the human experience.
High-Performance Culture
One of the key themes in the conversation is the importance of a high-performance culture. Michelle O’Keeffe explains that this concept emerged from her realisation that new employees were often attracted to the company by its impressive reputation but lacked clarity on the expectations in return. She acknowledges her discomfort in asking for help and emphasises the need for clear communication about what a high-performance culture entails, both for employees and clients.
Mutual Responsibility
Michelle highlights the significance of mutual responsibility in the employer-employee relationship. She stresses that clients should not expect employees to work excessive hours, as this is not sustainable or healthy. Instead, she advocates for a focus on outcomes rather than hours worked, reinforcing the idea that both parties share responsibility for success.
Creating a Supportive Work Environment -Treating Employees as Whole Individuals
Michelle O’Keeffe emphasises the importance of treating employees as whole individuals with lives outside of work. The company prioritises employee well-being, offering flexibility and support during personal challenges. Michelle believes that acknowledging the human aspect of work fosters a positive environment where employees can thrive.
Adaptability and Empathy
With a team of 45 to 50 people spread across six countries, Engaging IO has cultivated a culture that values high performance while also being empathetic to employees’ needs. Michelle highlights the importance of hiring the right people for roles, particularly in people and culture, to ensure that the company’s values are upheld. She shares an example of how the company supports employees during difficult times, such as family emergencies or personal challenges. By being adaptable and understanding, Engaging IO creates a workplace where employees feel valued and supported.
Mentorship and Coaching – Passion for Mentoring
Michelle’s passion for coaching and mentoring, particularly for women in leadership, is evident throughout the conversation. She is actively involved in mentorship programs, such as “Future Women,” where she helps women navigate their challenges and achieve leadership positions. Michelle also mentions her relationship with Yamini Rangan, the CEO of HubSpot Global, who shares her passion for developing women in tech. Together, they run sessions to support women in the industry, creating a full-circle mentorship experience.
Authentic Leadership
Michelle’s leadership philosophy is rooted in honesty and open communication. She believes that fostering a culture of trust and transparency is essential for maintaining a positive work environment. She discusses the importance of regular one-on-one meetings with team members, even across different countries, to ensure that everyone feels connected and valued.
Conclusion
In summary, Michelle O’Keeffe’s leadership journey and the culture at Engaging IO exemplify the importance of empathy, support, and high performance in the workplace. By prioritising the well-being of employees and fostering a positive environment, Engaging IO has positioned itself as a leader in the tech industry and a great place to work. Michelle’s insights offer valuable lessons for leaders and aspiring leaders, emphasising the need for authenticity, mutual responsibility, and a focus on outcomes rather than hours worked. Her commitment to mentoring and developing others further underscores the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.
By following Michelle’s example and implementing these principles, leaders can cultivate a high-performance culture that not only drives success but also ensures the well-being and growth of their employees.