At Buffer is one of our core values Focus on self -improvement. But a value in itself does not create action. Values need structure and support behind them.
I am Suzanne, operations manager of Buffer. Part of my role is building and implementing the systems that help make our values reality. In this article I will share how we support self -improvement with Buffer and how our teammates tap those sources in their own way.
Let’s take a look behind the scenes.
Growing Mindset Fund
Every teammate at Buffer has access to an annual $ 1,000 Growing Mindset Fund. The goal is to create a flexible way to encourage self -improvement and skill buildings with the team.
The name “Growth Mindset Fund” comes from the investigation of psychologist Carol Dweck to growth mindset. Dr. Dweck pioneered in the idea that skills are not resolved and that learning and effort can lead to improvement over time.
“The fixed mindset is about the outcome. If you fail – or if you are not the best – it is all wasted. The growth mindset enables people to appreciate what they do Regardless of the outcome . They tackle problems, map out new courses, work on important issues. “Carol Dweck writes in her book, mindset.
Here are just a few things that our teammates have used their growth mindset fund for:
- Courses to build or deepen a skill, specifically ⤵️
- One-on-one coaching or mentoring, specifically ⤵️
- Memberships in professional communities, specifically ⤵️
- Productivity tools or software, specifically ⤵️
Teammates have also funded conferences with the help of the growth mindset and special conference funds, which I will treat more in -depth in the next section.
Conferences
For some teammates, learning happens the best in person by attending conferences, entering into relationships and hearing from others in the industry.
Every year we identify a small number Important conferences Where Buffer would benefit from letting teammates live. Although this list changes, there are some conferences that we continue to find valuable year after year.
Buffer fully covers the costs, everything, from registration to travel, accommodation and meals. We see these conferences as strategic investments for both the company and the teammate. Often our team will even present at these conferences, because we like to build in public and share what we learn transparently!
If a teammate wants to attend another conference that is not identified on our most important list of conferences, they can still do that! We would cover a maximum of $ 1,000 in conference costs by using their growth mindset fund.
Senior content writer Tami Oladipo, for example, used her growth mindset fund to go to SXSW London this year (you can read about everything she has learned there In this articleIf you are interested!).
Unlimited books
We also believe that reading can be a powerful way to learn and grow.
Each teammate receives a free child when they become a member of Buffer and can spend all digital or audio books they choose. No approvals required. It is not necessary to bind it directly to work.
We believe that all types of books can expand our perspective and increase our creativity. That is why we believe in supporting everything, from science fiction and romance to leadership books and marketing.
Curious what we read? View Buffer.com/Books for a look in our ever-evolving team bookboard.
Right team 🤝 Right support
Learning looks different for everyone. Learning can even look different every year! Some teammates go deep on one new skill every year. Others dive into new topics month after month. Some prefer solo learning. Others thrive in community. We have aimed to build a structure that has the flexibility to support all this.
At the end of the day no system works without the right people. That is why, when we hire for open rolls at Buffer, we ask candidates to record a short video that share something that they recently learned. This is one of our favorite ways to see lifelong students who will thrive here. Because although we have built up the tools and resources to support growth, it is the curiosity, drive and love and love for learning from our teammates who really bring self -improvement to life.
About you
How do you like to learn the best – books, courses, conferences, mentorship, something else completely?
I would like to hear. Let a reaction fall and share what you helped recently grow.
#encourage #improvement #Buffer