On any given day, the IPCO team could be located in a handful of cities across South Carolina, North Carolina, or Georgia. While our current range of active projects spans from Fountain Inn to Savannah, job locations are changing constantly depending on the needs of our clients.
So when a problem arises or a team member is confronted with a situation that he or she has not experienced before, it’s not as easy as walking over to a supervisor’s desk to ask for the best plan of action. And sure, the team member could make a phone call or send a text (and we do), but it’s usually to confirm that the decision we’re making is the best one—not to ask how to go about making that decision.
The widespread nature of our work demands adherence to one of our IPCO Core Values of Initiative.
“Initiative” is a word we take seriously around here. Having the ability to independently assess a situation and to take charge to get the job done is a core value for our team not because we don’t communicate or have a plan; it’s a value because the sheer nature of our job means unexpected situations will arise, and we don’t have the time (or wish) to micromanage our employees.
For example, if a worker notices a potential problem with the site layout or senses a safety concern, taking proactive steps to address these issues can prevent costly delays, unnecessary accidents, and even serious injuries. Having a problem-solving mindset keeps minor issues from escalating into significant problems.
How do we trust that our employees make the right decisions?
IPCO CEO Brian Adkins approaches the hiring process a bit differently: “I believe in hiring people that are moldable and have good character. Experience isn’t everything. If someone is open and willing to learn, they have a place here.”
One such example of a strong hire is Stephanie Byrd, IPCO’s Controller, who is responsible for managing all assets and people. Her meticulous nature ensures that tasks are completed correctly without the need for oversight. Bills are paid, and projects are never dropped.
“I don’t have to wonder if things are taken care of with Stephanie. She is always on top of deadlines, she is a proactive thinker and does a really great job of keeping me in line … (not an easy task),” says Brian.
Similarly, Rebecca Edwards, IPCO’s Project Administrator, is known for her ability to take complex or overwhelming ideas and make them happen. Rebecca plays a critical role in coordinating the training for team members, making sure that each employee is properly trained and up to date on any certifications or licenses that expire. Her proactive approach means she jumps in without hesitation and develops systems independently.
“I don’t always know the exact steps to get something done, but I am determined to figure it out,” says Rebecca. “That’s part of the fun of this job. It allows me to be creative and gives me the opportunity to learn quickly as I go.”
When workers proactively identify tasks and act without waiting for unnecessary instructions, projects progress smoothly, and deadlines are met. Initiative leads to increased efficiency, as team members learn how to anticipate needs and address them properly. In addition, encouraging employees to take initiative cultivates their leadership skills.
Employees who demonstrate initiative inspire confidence in their teammates and set a positive example for others. This leadership fosters a more collaborative and motivated team, improving the project’s success overall.
“I’m proud of our team and the initiative they show on a daily basis,” says Brian. “We want to create an environment where employees trust their instincts, take initiative, and work as a team to successfully and efficiently complete projects.”
