How can you foster a company culture where human values thrive alongside financial success? In a recent episode of the Danish podcast Talent Toolbox Talks, Klaus Rylov, CEO of Byggefakta Danmark, shared his transformative journey. Alongside hosts Michael Casparij and Iris Isabella Engelund, he discussed the power of authentic leadership, psychological safety, and structured talent development in driving sustainable change.

Culture Shock: A Catalyst for Change

When Klaus Rylov stepped into the role of CEO, he encountered a sales-driven culture dominated by KPIs and silos. His solution? Introduce a language of vulnerability, trust, and authenticity from day one.

“They were shocked,” Klaus recalled. “I showed vulnerability, and that built trust right away.”

This approach shifted the perception of employees—from cogs in a machine to individuals with unique talents and potential.

From Vision to Action

Changing company culture requires more than bold ideas. Klaus embedded these changes into daily operations using the Play Your Talent tool, which became a cornerstone of the transformation:

1. Kick-off Workshop: 75-80 employees engaged in a session to create a shared language of talent.
2. Talent Visibility: Physical displays of talent profiles served as daily reminders.
3. Structured Dialogues: Monthly one-on-one conversations integrated talent profiles into leadership.

“We’ve made it part of our HR and recruitment strategy to ensure it doesn’t just sit in a drawer,” Klaus explained.

The Results: Human-Centric Focus Delivers

After just one year, the results were striking:

• Byggefakta Danmark rose from the bottom 25% to top positions in employee engagement surveys.
• Financial performance improved alongside customer satisfaction.

“When you make human-focused initiatives a reality—not just talk—the results follow,” Klaus emphasized.

From Intuition to Strategy

Looking ahead, Klaus aims to align talent development with business strategy. His advice? Stay persistent.

“You can’t change habits or culture overnight,” he noted. Tools like Play Your Talent help integrate new employees into the company’s shared culture, ensuring sustainable growth.

Actionable Leadership Tips

Klaus summarized his lessons for leaders:

1. Be Authentic: True leadership requires vulnerability and honesty.
2. Build Trust First: Psychological safety is the foundation for change.
3. Make Talent Development Daily: Use structured plans with workshops, follow-ups, and visible outcomes.
4. Think Long-Term: Cultural shifts demand consistent effort and adaptation.
5. Engage the Entire Organization: Include everyone, not just leadership, in talent development.

 

Conclusion: Aligning People and Profit

Klaus ended the podcast with an inspiring reflection:

“My purpose is to ensure no one feels they wasted a minute under my leadership. Developing people drives better results.”

This approach underscores the synergy between human and financial success, proving they’re not opposing forces but complementary goals.