Jana Lenort has been part of ioki since November 2017 and as Head of People she supports and is responsible for all issues concerning recruiting processes, personnel management and employee affairs. Jana is the contact person for all worries and aches of the iokians and with her cheerful manner she likes to conjure a smile on their faces.
There is a special atmosphere around Christmas time. Contemplation is in the air. And there is a special atmosphere at ioki too. What exactly is it that makes ioki an exceptional employer?
There are many parameters that make ioki a special employer. One is the selection process for new employees. We take a lot of time for the candidates so that they get to know us and we get to know them. In the end, both sides have to be satisfied with the decision to enter into a contract with each other. In this way we can reduce the risk that in the end expectations are not met. We also pay close attention to diversity. Everyone is welcome at ioki. Also, the interaction within the company is very special. It is like a small (big) family. You look after each other and help each other. Otherwise, we could not deliver at the speed we work. ioki is simply a great employer who has developed a meaningful product and brings it to the market. If we continue to pursue our vision “We connect people and shape the future of public transport” in the same way, we will create very great added value for society.
At ioki, culture and the well-being of the employees are particularly important. What processes do you use to ensure that this well-being is not put to the test?
Our Agile Leads have a very big job here, especially in the Corona period, as we work a lot from home. Through regular appraisal interviews, we make sure that the employees are always heard and can express their opinions to their lead. Employees also have the opportunity to give their input on a wide range of topics via our employee survey tool Peakon. At the same time, there are many exchange formats that further promote internal communication and interaction. Examples include the lunch raffle, Afterwork get togethers, our Fika, which takes place every day, and much more. When inconsistencies arise, employees are always encouraged to enter into dialogue immediately so that topics do not pile up or misunderstandings arise. Through our Lightning- and Thunder Talks, the knowledge that the iokians bring with them is always passed on and shared, so that we can always learn from each other. Of course the events are voluntary. On the whole, it is always a challenge to keep the balance between the hard business and the culture, but the culture is an important factor that makes us as a team very strong.
As Head of People you have a good insight into all teams. From marketing to mobility analytics in the corner of sales to business development. How does the cooperation between all the individual teams work?
The teams work very well with each other. Of course, there are communication deficits at one point or another, which must always be addressed. Especially in the corona period, communication is essential. After projects in which the expertise of many teams has been used, a retro is made to learn from the things that didn’t go so well. Our Agile Coaches also have the task to support and strengthen the internal cooperation.
There is one thing that most people are particularly happy about in December: the Christmas tree can be decorated. What does your perfect Christmas tree look like?
Our Christmas tree is usually decorated with beautiful fairy lights. In addition there are some wooden figures, which you have bought from time to time at the Christmas market. And there is a star on the top. So, I wish all ioki lovers, customers, colleagues and the whole team a Merry Christmas and a less turbulent 2021, in which we will hopefully continue to grow together socially and promote the mobility of tomorrow.
Thank you, Jana!