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“Mike is empowering and motivating,”
says Brianne Becker. “He acts as a leader
but is still in the trenches with you. It’s
very refreshing to work for someone
who does what you do, knows what you
do and what challenges you are up
against. He’s very supportive and has our
backs.” Brenda Pflumm agrees. “He’s
always positive, supportive and a terrific
mentor,” she says. “He never comes
across as the boss; he makes you feel like
an equal, and encourages your individu-
ality and your strengths.” Kerry George,
who has worked for Malinowski for just
over a year, says, “He shares our
successes and ideas with everyone,
which means a lot. It shows that he’s
proud of our hard work.”
Mike Malinowski
Director of Sales, Gill Studios, Inc.
(UPIC: Gill)
Shawnee Mission, Kansas
Number of direct reports:
8
Cool factor:
He’s an amazing storyteller. Any time he is relating something,
whether it’s work-related or an experience with his family, he paints such a
picture that you can see it, relate to it and find the humor in it.
Nominators:
Sarah Mann, Kerry George, Rob Baumgardner, Brianne
Becker, Brenda Pflumm
What is your philosophy
for successfully managing people?
Malinowski:
Be consistent, be available
and be empathetic. All three are needed
to build a successful team.
How do you create a
positive culture with your team and
those who report to you?
Malinowski:
First, always listen first
before providing any input. Listening
sets the foundation for solutions and
ideas. Second, hold weekly one-on-one
meetings with each team member to
check in personally and professionally.
We spend much of our lives together
and showing that you care supports the
culture that has been part of the Gill tra-
dition. Work/life balance is vital in
today’s world. Third, support company
goals with all actions including hands-on
activity. Assist other departments when
needed. I wouldn’t expect any team
member to do something that I wouldn’t
do. Fourth, celebrate successes like
birthdays, work anniversaries, monthly
goals and big orders.
What advice can you share with other
managers to improve their people-
management skills?
Malinowski:
Put your team first. Make
sure they know you are always available
and transparent. Focus on goals and stay
true to the big picture. Don’t get
bogged down in daily management. As
Warren Buffett said, “Hire well, manage
little.” If your team is spirited and
engaged, your job will be amazing too.
Mike Malinowski (center) is flanked by his team members who appreciate his ability to create a
relaxed environment where regular communication is key.