Randi James: 'We Always Talk about Culture Before Skill'

Co-Owner, Renstrom Dental Studio,
St. Paul, MN; 70 employees

LMT: What’s the most important thing you’ve done to enhance your culture?

James: Adjusting our hiring mindset to look for the best attitude versus the best technical ability. Now we always talk about culture before skill; the work can be taught. We’ve found that initially focusing on those qualities leads to stronger, more cohesive teams over time.

For both parties to assess fit, we may offer internship opportunities. The potential new hire can see first-hand what our day-to-day routine is like and whether it’s an environment where they can excel. And our technicians get a much better understanding of their attitudes and communication skills and whether they seem motivated to learn or attentive to detail.

Employees want to ensure the potential hire is a good fit too; when you have an atmosphere...