“When You Don’t Have All the Answers, You Have to Surround Yourself with People Who Do.”
Mary Barra’s Philosophy
CEO of General Motors, Mary Barra has played a pivotal role in the revitalization of the automotive company. The importance of cultivating an inclusive and supportive workplace culture has significant implications for organizational success not only at GM but at organizations and companies all around the world. Barra’s perspective on hiring visionaries captures the importance of effective leadership. It emphasizes the significance of humility and identifying one’s limitations. Being surrounded by the perspectives, ideas and expertise of others with a diverse and knowledgeable background can become beneficial to the growth of the company. Barra underscores the value of teamwork, trust, and open-mindedness, empowering leaders to make better-informed judgements to further drive the success of the company. Creating an environment consisting of business innovation and diversity was instrumental in the continued growth that we see today at General Motors.
Mary Barra’s accomplishments as CEO of General Motors
First Female Boss of General Motors:
Mary Barra made history by becoming the first female CEO of a main worldwide automaker company when she took on the role of CEO of General Motors in January 2014. Her nomination was an influential breakthrough for women in leadership positions in the vehicle industry.
Leading General Motors through Transformative Changes:
Barra has been at the forefront of leading GM through a stage of substantial transformation. Under her leadership, the company has incorporated the electric movement and independent vehicle technologies, positioning GM for the future of the EV industry.
Attention on the EV Market
Mary Barra has been a strong believer for electric and autonomous vehicles. GM has revealed innovative plans for electrification, including the expansion into new electric prototypes and progressions in autonomous vehicle technology.
Era of Electric Vehicles (EVs):
During Barra’s term, GM has committed to an “all-electric future.” The leading car company has unveiled electric vehicles such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV and announced ideas for an extensive range of electric models across its brands.
Encouragement for Diversity and Inclusion:
Mary Barra has been an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the automotive industry. Under her leadership, GM has taken strides to expand on diversity within the company and stimulate a culture of inclusion.
How does the philosophy “When you don't have all the answers, you have to surround yourself with people who do.” Translate into organizational success?
The idea stresses the importance of cooperation, communication, and leveraging the knowledge of others, specifically in circumstances where an individual may not have all the answers. No one person can possess expertise in all areas! Taking a page out of Steve Jobs’ playbook at Apple, Barra encourages individuals to be aware of their limitations, to value teamwork, and to recognize that success often comes from the shared efforts of a group. It aligns with the philosophy that a diverse and collaborative approach is key to overcoming challenges and achieving success in various endeavors.
Here at Creative Resource Personnel, we recognize the importance of building a diverse and cooperative workforce that best suits the business needs. We rely on our staffing professionals to provide you with go-getters to take your company to the top!
