Jason McCann is on a mission to help companies create professional environments that elevate people – literally.
McCann is the co-founder and CEO of Vari, a workplace innovation furniture company known for its famous Varidesk, an adjustable standing desk.
On this week’s episode of the Start With a Win podcast, McCann joins RE/MAX Holdings CEO Adam Contos to share how he identified demand from consumers, grew a business and continues to help people feel comfortable and empowered in a professional setting.
The concept of the Varidesk began when McCann’s business partner was experiencing back pain. To alleviate the discomfort, he used a cardboard box to raise his desk and stand while working. They expanded on the invention and created a sit-stand desk, grew its popularity, and eventually created a product that became the No. 1 top-selling item in SkyMall’s history.
According to McCann, the business has found success – and continues to grow – because leadership listens to the needs of their customers.
“For us, it was initially a desk. And then we recognized organizations needed to transform cultures,” McCann says. “We’re all – as CEOs – trying to recruit and retain amazing talent. We’re trying to elevate our cultures. We’re trying to drive innovation. But innovation happens when people get to interact and move.”
He adds, “It’s us continuing to push the envelope on what is the future of innovation.”
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, McCann notes that lifestyles have become increasingly more sedentary for many, and more and more people are suffering from “tech neck” – neck and back pain caused from hunching over to operate a computer all day long. Creating an interactive environment, like being able to stand while working, is helping people overcome these challenges.
The pandemic has also helped McCann tailor his leadership to better connect with his company and consumers. He believes that in addition to being a beacon of hope, leaders must lead by example and create a positive ripple effect.
“Really listening as a leader has [become] more important than ever,” he says.
Tune in to this week’s podcast episode to learn more tips from McCann for business leaders to adapt and innovate within their industries.
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Written by RE/MAX News
