Remote CEO 101: Hire the best people, build a great culture

In a recent interview with CEO.com, 8x8 CEO Samuel Wilson emphasized hiring and culture as the cornerstone of a remote company's success and growth, as they set the foundation for a productive and engaged workforce.

Wilson’s belief in hiring the best people regardless of location highlights a modern approach to talent acquisition. Since its growth post-pandemic, remote work and video conferencing technology have enabled collaboration with top talent worldwide. This expands the pool of potential candidates and brings diverse perspectives and skills to the team.

Wilson also discussed the importance of communication in a remote work environment. By regularly sharing updates and insights with the entire company, a leader can help employees feel connected and informed about the organization's goals and progress. This open communication fosters a sense of belonging and unity among team members, even if they are physically separated.

In addition to virtual communication, Wilson highlighted the value of in-person meetings and team gatherings. By bringing employees together for high-energy collaboration sessions, the speaker creates opportunities for team building and relationship building. These face-to-face interactions help strengthen the company culture and foster a sense of community among employees.

Wilson believes in the importance of clarity and consistency when defining and communicating company values. Establishing a shared sense of purpose and direction is critical to clearly articulating the organization's values and ensuring that employees understand and embody them. This alignment of values guides decision-making and behavior within the company and shapes how external stakeholders perceive the company.