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Episode 65 – The ups and downs removing the hierarchy from a team with Tom McLaughlin

Show Notes

Removing hierarchy and implementing self-management in an organisation can be challenging, but it can also lead to positive changes and benefits for businesses willing to take the leap.
Agency founder Tom McLaughlin felt he needed to let go of some control and delegate more as the company grew. He wanted to remove the hierarchy and power dynamics in the organisation, so worked with an expert in the field of self-management, and set about restructuring his company.
Tom’s book recommendations
Takeaways from Pia and Dan
  • Leaders who put a shell around themselves and are not open to feedback may be immune from criticism, but being open to feedback invites scrutiny and improves the system.
  • The ultimate accountability for the business falls on the person responsible for the last penny in the bank, and it takes a team of trustworthy individuals to manage tough decisions together.
  • There’s a difference between a role and hierarchical power, so instead of shying away from leadership roles, team members can take ownership and accountability for decisions while still valuing everyone’s input.
  • Team members have the potential to see career opportunities differently in a flat organisation and value the freedom to explore and challenge themselves.
Meet the guests
Tom is the founder of SEO Travel, a marketing agency that works with SMEs in the travel sector. He’s been running the business for more than 12 years, growing it to a team of 23 people and evolving the offering and make up of the business during that time. He’s also the host of The Travel Growth Podcast where he speaks to leaders in the travel sector to learn about the successes, challenges and learnings from their journey. Outside of work you’ll find him running on the fells around Ilkley, tapping (/pounding) the drums and generally acting as full time entertainer for his 3 kids.
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