The Huddle cycle consists of a series of meetings where financial and operational numbers are shared and forecasted. These meetings include a Pre-Huddle, Main-Huddle and Post-Huddle, all with different focuses and objectives. When performed properly, the Huddle Cycle saves time despite the additional meetings by providing improved communication within your company, better execution of your tasks and strategies, and a clear understanding of how each employee affects the success of the company.
Check out this footage from an SRC Electrical Huddle and let’s break down what makes it an engaging and productive Main-Huddle.
Indicators of a Strong Huddle
- Their company Huddle is held at the same time and place every week.
- It starts on time and is fast-paced for efficiency and engagement of the participants. Notice how SRC Electrical was able to quickly go through and explain their financial numbers, in addition to participating in a financial training exercise in 45 minutes.
- Communication is concise, forward-looking, and highlights opportunities and emerging issues.
- Learning is emphasized and employees leave each Huddle more informed and educated on the business. SRC Electrical developed a fun, action-packed, 12-round financial training game, SRC-opoly, to teach employees business concepts including loan balances, cash, equity and ESOPs. Additionally, they notify employees on upcoming available certifications.
- The communication revolves around their Critical Number™ and the drivers affecting that number.
- There is clear accountability and follow through. Employees openly share both wins and losses, and the story behind those numbers. Each individual knows what lines and numbers they are responsible for, and are able to fully explain changes in the forecast.
- Questions are encouraged and assumptions are challenged.
- People volunteer their skills and strengths to help each other succeed.
- Contributions, progress and successes are recognized and celebrated. Notice how SRC Electrical celebrates their bonus accrual projection increase, and that the company is debt-free.
- People leave the Huddle with a clear line-of-sight from their decisions and actions to the overall financial performance of the company. There is a focus on the next steps. See the Huddle leader bring focus to the item (material usage number) the company needs to focus on in order to achieve the next level of bonus.
- People leave the Huddle energized.
Use our printable Huddle checklist to gauge your Huddle strengths and opportunities.
Learn more successful Huddling tips and tricks from real Great Game practitioners at the world's largest open-book conference in September.
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