In this installment of our series on successful MSP leaders, we delve into the service-centered approach of Nicholas Paulukow, the visionary CEO of ONE 2 ONE Inc.
Nick's journey began in the early '90s when he pursued education in IT, driven by a passion for both business and technology. However, his entrepreneurial spirit emerged early on when he started and successfully managed a lawn care and landscaping company at the age of 15. Venturing into Corporate America, Nick grew his knowledge of business dynamics. His roles in various organizations, including AOL's MapQuest, exposed him to different leadership styles that influenced his own when founding ONE 2 ONE in 2001.
Leadership Shaped by Service Principles
Nick's leadership philosophy is a fusion of accountability and empowerment. His father's teachings on service and delivery provided the bedrock for starting ONE 2 ONE, emphasizing the importance of service regardless of the industry.
Nick's driving force lies in the belief that ONE 2 ONE exists to serve others. His passion for empowering and educating the team, staff, and clients fuels the organization's daily success. The satisfaction of witnessing the team grow, even if it means they leave to pursue other opportunities, excites Nick, embodying his commitment to the empowerment journey.
Here are a few ways he actively puts service towards others first at ONE 2 ONE.
Employee Well-being: A Service-Oriented Approach
Nick and ONE 2 ONE prioritize their employees' well-being through tangible actions. Mental health program resources are provided to their employees, allowing them to anonymously use sessions at a local community health partner. Each employee is allotted so many per month because they understand the importance of mental well-being and how it can impact an individual and their work performance.
Their employees are also gifted skill development stipends to help achieve new training and skills in their field. This can help them grow with the company or for their own personal growth. Nick remarks that the organization's success is not solely measured in its growth but also in the growth and empowerment of individuals.
Service In The Community
At ONE2ONE, they have a culture committee, run by employees, that spearheads initiatives focused on giving back, fostering internal camaraderie, and supporting volunteer efforts. With an allocated budget, the committee focuses on giving back to the community through initiatives like Toys for Tots, monthly street cleanups, and internal events promoting team cohesion. The company actively participates in Extragive, a full day of giving organized by a nonprofit partner, where employees volunteer and contribute to the community.
Additionally, ONE 2 ONE encourages a culture of individual volunteerism by providing eight hours of paid Volunteered Time Off (VTO) annually, allowing employees to support causes close to their hearts. These efforts exemplify ONE 2 ONE’s dedication to serving not only its clients but also the broader community.
Service-Centric Client Approach
At ONE 2 ONE, the commitment to service extends to client selection. They only target organizations within their maturity level, ensuring a partnership where service is valued as an executive member. Staying within their reach, they learn and grow together, avoiding stumbling blocks that may arise when venturing outside their scopes, showcasing their dedication to their clients vs. profiting off someone who may not be their best fit.
The key to staying ahead of the technological curve, according to Nick, lies in understanding clients' needs and prioritizing their transformation. The focus is on serving clients daily, steering clear of the allure of every new trend. It's about putting the clients' needs above all else.
Core Values: The Foundation of a Service Culture
ONE 2 ONE’'s success is deeply rooted in its core values, a set of principles that guide every aspect of the organization. These values become the compass for hiring, firing, training, and rewarding, fostering an environment where service is not just a buzzword but a way of life. Identifying and prioritizing core values at ONE 2 ONE. has created an environment of purpose-driven individuals. Accountability, defined roles, and expectations contribute to a focused and attractive organizational culture.
The 'Why' Behind the Service-Centric Success
Nick's motivation is rooted in the profound belief that ONE 2 ONE. is here to serve others. While the company operates in the service industry, the true excitement for him lies in empowering and educating his team, staff, and clients. The organization's success is not just measured in growth metrics but in the collective growth and empowerment of individuals, fostering a culture of service that extends far beyond the business realm.
In conclusion, Nick Paulukow's leadership journey at ONE 2 ONE. is a testament to the transformative power of service. His commitment to the community, clients, and employees paints a vivid picture of a leader who understands that true success is achieved through selfless service.
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