Ep 87: How to Go From Fear-Driven to Freedom-Centric Organizations

Matt Perez has been in the technology industry for a very long time, working in both small and large companies. Almost 10 years ago he co-founded Nearsoft with partner Roberto Martinez. Nearsoft helps their software development company clients grow development teams with engineers in Mexico. Clients can then reap the benefits of a team that speaks the same language and works in the same time zone. Currently, Nearsoft has around 200 employees and 3 offices in Mexico. Even more unique than their strong presence in Mexico is the fact that there are no managers or titles at Nearsoft… it is completely self-managed!

According to Matt when people start working at Nearsoft it takes them a while to really believe that they don't have a boss. They have an onboarding process that is currently being expanded from 2 to 6 weeks to help deal with that. The process highlights how to work with clients and communicate within the organization. New hires are assigned a mentor for any questions they may have. Everything, such as philosophy and values, is written so employees have context and know the appropriate things to do. It isn't so detailed as step by step instructions but includes the necessary materials for employees to accomplish their goals.

Nearsoft also encourages leadership teams as part of a decision matrix that spells out the types of decisions that are made around the company. Anyone can start a leadership team on any topic, from trivial to profound. Others can choose to sign up, and the only rules are to keep minutes and post them for transparency. Even if a decision is made that Matt and Roberto don't agree with, they will do what the employees feel is in their best interest. Without a manager, employees remain accountable for their own work by using OKRs, or objective key results. They define personal and work-related goals that they want to accomplish for the quarter. Nearsoft has a very well defined governance framework. So employees should explore what they are doing to contribute to the company's vision and purpose for the next 5 years.

What you will learn in this episode:

• What it's like to work at Nearsoft
• What self management is really like
• The concept of how to treat people like an adult
• Ownership by decision making
• Workplace flexibility
• Holacracy
• Pros and cons of this type of organizational structure

Link From The Episode:

Nearsoft.com

(Music by Ronald Jenkees)