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The Netflix Challenge & Lessons in Building Diverse, Effective Teams
with Michelle Jensen Session
Josiah Mackenzie
October 16, 2023
Together with
Today, we’re learning about:
The “Netflix challenge”
Integrity
1,000 true fans
The coaching myth
…and much more
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TOGETHER WITH HIREOLOGY
Hireology State of Hiring in Hospitality Report 2023
Hotels, resorts, and other hospitality businesses have never fully recovered the jobs they were forced to eliminate at the onset of the pandemic and now — more than three years later — are still struggling to attract talent for these roles. Workers in this sector have the upper hand, forcing employers to adjust their offerings and processes to meet their needs or risk losing top talent and taking a hit to the bottom line.
The key for employers in the hospitality space is to better understand the mindset of today’s skilled workers so you can adjust your offerings and processes to stand out. Hireology recently surveyed more than 400 hospitality industry job seekers to understand the modern hospitality worker and created a report that outlines the six common characteristics found in this group and what it means for you as an employer looking to fill open roles, better serve guests, and maximize revenue for your business.
FEATURE STORY
The Netflix Challenge & Lessons in Building Diverse, Effective Teams
with Michelle Jensen Session
Michelle Jensen Session
A little while back, Netflix ran a competition to improve its algorithms — the technology that suggests new movies and TV shows it thinks you'll like. Everyone expected the top data scientists to dominate the Netflix challenge.
But they didn't...
Today, we learn from Michelle Jensen Session about the surprising lessons behind the Netflix challenge, the importance of diversity, understanding cultural differences, and the significance of conversations for successful leadership in hospitality.
The Netflix Algorithm Challenge
In our conversation, Michelle shared the story behind a competition Netflix ran, where teams worldwide competed to improve the platform's algorithms.
Contrary to expectations, the top data scientists did not dominate the competition. Instead, smaller teams with diverse backgrounds and perspectives banded together to overtake the initial frontrunners.
This outcome underscores the power of diverse teams in tackling complex problems and ultimately achieving success.
The Business Case for Diversity
I was the Equal Opportunity Compliance Officer for University of California, San Diego, and what I learned was the diverse teams are the most powerful. It impacts the business on their bottom line.
Citing a study conducted by a professor from the University of Michigan, Michelle emphasized that diverse teams significantly impact a business's bottom line.
A company can harness the collective strength of different viewpoints by bringing together individuals from various fields. Diversity becomes a key driver of success in the hospitality industry, where standing out and creating unique experiences are crucial.
Understanding Cultural Differences
Michelle shared a compelling story from her time as Chief Operating Officer of a hotel portfolio, highlighting the importance of understanding cultural differences in leadership. During a staff appreciation event organized by a white general manager for her primarily Latina team, choosing prime rib for the meal did not resonate.
In her world, it’s a treat. In their world, they didn’t know what to do with it.
There was a disconnect, and this anecdote underscores the significance of cultural competence and the need for leaders to gather information and insights before making assumptions or decisions.
The Role of Conversations and Feedback
Michelle advises hospitality leaders to engage in conversations and seek feedback to avoid missteps and stay connected with their teams. She advises us to incorporate practical things like having breakfast together, as it provides an opportunity for open dialogue.
It’s all about having conversations.
By sharing the value and purpose behind the work, hospitality leaders can inspire their teams and help them understand the broader impact of their contributions. Storytelling becomes a powerful tool in conveying the significance of each employee's role and fostering a sense of purpose.
What people are really looking for is purpose. Our job as leaders is to share why the work is valuable, and why it matters.
Succeeding Through Diversity
The Netflix algorithm challenge serves as a reminder that diverse teams bring fresh perspectives and enhance problem-solving capabilities. By embracing diversity, fostering cultural competence, and engaging in meaningful conversations, executives can create inclusive work environments that inspire their teams and drive success in the ever-evolving hospitality industry.
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