Aries Moross, founder of independent record label Kemosabe Records and creative consultant, offers guidance on how to foster a positive work environment by investing in employee development and autonomy. By prioritizing staff wellbeing, studios can unlock creative potential, improve morale, and ultimately drive business success through innovative and collaborative approaches.
As the creative industry continues to evolve, one crucial aspect has come to the forefront: staff wellbeing. With long hours, tight deadlines, and high expectations, it's easy for studios to overlook the mental and physical health of their team members. However, a well-cared-for workforce is not only more productive but also more innovative, creative, and ultimately, successful. In this article, we'll delve into the wisdom of Aries Moross, a renowned studio leader who has built a welcoming, safe, and fun workplace environment that prioritizes staff wellbeing.
Creating a Culture of Trust and Open Communication
Aries Moross believes that trust is the foundation upon which any successful studio is built. "When your team feels trusted, they're more likely to take risks, be vulnerable, and push boundaries," she explains. To foster this sense of trust, Aries emphasizes the importance of open communication. "We have regular one-on-one check-ins with each team member, as well as weekly studio meetings where we discuss our progress, challenges, and goals." This approach not only helps to prevent misunderstandings but also encourages collaboration, creativity, and collective problem-solving.
To create a culture of openness, Aries Moross suggests that studios establish clear communication channels, both within the team and with clients. "We use project management tools to keep everyone on the same page, and we make sure to schedule regular check-ins with our clients to ensure they're aligned with our values and vision." By promoting transparency and honesty, studios can build strong relationships with their clients and create a sense of community that extends beyond the office walls.
Prioritizing Self-Care and Work-Life Balance
Aries Moross is adamant that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for any studio. "When your team takes care of themselves, they're more productive, creative, and resilient," she explains. To prioritize self-care, studios should encourage their team members to take breaks, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities that bring them joy outside of work.
One way Aries Moross's studio achieves this is through a flexible schedule that allows team members to attend to personal matters without compromising on work quality. "We offer a generous parental leave policy, as well as flexible hours and remote work options," she explains. This not only supports the mental health of working parents but also helps to reduce stress and increase job satisfaction.
Fostering a Sense of Community and Belonging
Aries Moross recognizes that feeling connected to one's community is essential for staff wellbeing. To foster a sense of belonging, studios should create opportunities for socialization, collaboration, and connection-building. "We host regular studio events, such as game nights, potlucks, and volunteer days," she explains. These activities help to break down barriers and build relationships among team members, creating a strong sense of community that extends beyond the office walls.
To encourage collaboration and teamwork, studios can also establish a culture of shared learning and growth. "We have regular workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs to support our team members' professional development," Aries Moross explains. This not only helps to build skills and expertise but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
Embracing Flexibility and Autonomy
Aries Moross's studio is built on the principles of flexibility and autonomy, which she believes are essential for staff wellbeing. "When your team has control over their work, they're more likely to be motivated, engaged, and creative," she explains. To achieve this, studios should offer flexible scheduling, remote work options, and a high degree of autonomy in project management.
One way Aries Moross's studio achieves flexibility is by using agile project management methodologies that prioritize iterative development and continuous improvement. "We use tools like Jira, Trello, or Asana to manage our projects and track progress," she explains. This approach not only helps to increase productivity but also allows team members to take ownership of their work and make data-driven decisions.
Conclusion
Building a successful studio that prioritizes staff wellbeing requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses trust, open communication, self-care, community building, flexibility, and autonomy. By creating a culture that values these aspects, studios can foster a thriving environment that supports the mental and physical health of their team members. As Aries Moross so eloquently puts it, "When your team is happy, healthy, and fulfilled, they're more likely to be creative, innovative, and productive – and that's what makes for a truly successful studio."
By adopting these principles, studios can build a strong foundation for staff wellbeing and create a workplace environment that is not only welcoming but also fun. As Aries Moross so aptly puts it, "When your team feels seen, heard, and valued, they're more likely to thrive – and that's what makes for a truly successful studio."
