#30: Hiring & Firing: A Manager’s Perspective

The Design Imposter

How many strikes are too many before it’s time to let someone go? Dive into the tough decisions behind hiring and firing from a manager's perspective in this episode of The Design Impostor. We discuss the ups and downs of building and maintaining a team, from interns to business partners. Tune in for a candid conversation that every manager and aspiring professional needs to hear!
In this episode of The Design Impostor, hosts Monique Jenkins and Jessica Valis tackle the complex and often emotional process of hiring and firing from a manager’s perspective. They discuss the excitement of bringing new talent into a team, as well as the heartbreak and challenges that come with letting someone go. From interns and contractors to full-time employees and business partners, Monique and Jessica share their experiences and insights on what it takes to build and maintain a successful team.
Monique highlights the importance of aligning new hires with the team’s culture and work ethic, sharing stories from her mentoring experiences with design students. Jessica provides practical advice on what she looks for in an intern's portfolio and how she gauges their potential during the hiring process. Together, they emphasize the significance of curiosity, coachability, and clear communication in fostering a productive work environment.
The discussion then shifts to the often overlooked but critical aspect of letting someone go. Monique and Jessica recount their personal experiences, from dealing with absenteeism to managing personality clashes that can disrupt team dynamics. They offer valuable tips on how to handle performance improvement plans and the tough conversations that come with terminating an employee.
Finally, the hosts delve into the nuances of working with contractors and maintaining business partnerships. They share their strategies for vetting potential partners and ensuring that everyone on the team is aligned with the company’s goals. Throughout the episode, Monique and Jessica provide actionable advice and real-world examples, making this a must-listen for anyone involved in hiring and team management.
Action Items for Managers and Leaders

1. Evaluate Your Hiring Process: Reflect on your current hiring practices. Are you thoroughly vetting candidates to ensure they fit your team’s culture and work ethic? Consider implementing new strategies shared in the episode.
2. Enhance Communication: Whether it's with employees, interns, or contractors, clear and open communication is key. Schedule regular check-ins and provide constructive feedback to help your team grow.
3. Set Clear Expectations: For both new hires and existing team members, make sure everyone understands their roles, responsibilities, and the company’s core values. This can prevent misunderstandings and improve overall performance.
4. Plan for Tough Conversations: Prepare for the difficult discussions that come with managing performance and, if necessary, termination. Approach these conversations with empathy and a clear action plan to support those involved.
5. Leverage Mentorship: If you’re in a leadership role, take the time to mentor your team members. Sharing your knowledge and experience can significantly impact their career development and your team’s success.

By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with practical tips and insights to enhance your hiring process, improve team dynamics, and handle the tough decisions with confidence. Press play and join Monique and Jessica as they navigate the intricate world of team management.
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