We Before Me: Building a Team Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts

Getting the best out of your team is not something you can check off your to-do list and forget about. Building a great culture that produces results that go beyond the sum of a team’s parts takes constant vigilance. There will be wins and failures along the way, but a team’s intentional pursuit of excellence and mutual respect is what keeps the dream alive and well.

Join Michael Gilpin on some of the journeys his team has been through that have helped them live out these realities. In the process of building this culture, they’ve found purpose and motivation that has moved them well beyond just showing up for a job every day. The stories in We Before Me can transform a team’s perspective, reform a team’s culture, and become a lifestyle. And the results can become downright special.

MICHAEL GILPIN, his wife Erin, and their two children Benjamin and Addison reside in West Michigan. In 2005, Michael and Erin moved from Eastern Pennsylvania to start a family business with Michael’s parents, Kim and Judy. Before they ever opened their doors, they knew they wanted to create a special culture. And that dream is still alive and well today.

“We Before Me is a great read to reflect on your leadership and team collaboration. Simple, yet effective. A great way to get more than the sum of the parts of your team.” - Catherine Monson, President & CEO, Propelled Brands

“FASTSIGNS of Grand Rapids has a strong foundation using the building blocks of integrity, strong values, responsibility, and the belief all people must be treated with dignity and respect. These building blocks are visible in the everyday actions of the company and its people. Not only are they a great team, but we also consider them part of our team.” - David Hooker, President & CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park