Focus on People, Differences, and Communication

In just a year and a half, Biograil has grown from 5 to 20 employees, with big ambitions for the future. However, for Karsten Lindhardt, growth is not just about numbers. He emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where employees thrive and feel safe, an essential factor in an innovative company.

“I try to be brutally honest and act appropriately, focusing on ensuring people feel okay,” Karsten explains. As part of this philosophy, he prioritizes regular conversations with new employees, especially during the first few months, to ensure they feel comfortable and understood.

He also recognizes the importance of focusing on differences and effective communication.

“We have used profiling tools to address specific challenges related to communication and collaboration,” Karsten explains.

This effort has become a key part of Biograil’s DNA, as it strengthens the company’s cohesion and shared direction. The result has been a greater understanding of each other’s strengths and challenges, helping to prevent misunderstandings and improve collaboration in daily work.

Additionally, Biograil organizes practical exercises and events where employees learn to understand each other’s different communication styles.

“It’s not about making it overly academic but about finding specific ways to improve our collaboration and understand how we can communicate better,” says Karsten.

Transparency as a Foundation

Another notable aspect of Biograil’s culture is Karsten’s emphasis on transparency. Every month, he shares detailed updates with the team about the company’s financial status, technological progress, and future opportunities.

“It’s about addressing the issues openly. If you’re worried about uncertainties, this might not be the right company for you,” he says, stressing that a transparent approach builds trust and engagement.

This transparency goes hand in hand with a flat organizational structure, where everyone contributes to the community and feels like an essential part of the team.

“We’ve built a machine where everyone is important and is part of something bigger than themselves,” Karsten explains.

Well-Being and Collaboration

To Karsten, a healthy company culture is not only a question about talking about the employee’s well-being, but making sure the employees can feel it on an everyday basis. Biograil prioritizes social activities, inviting employees and their families to gatherings at his home and organizing team events to strengthen the sense of belonging.

Daily interactions also play a crucial role. Everybody eats lunch together, and weekly meetings ensure that everyone feels informed and included.

“We discuss everything from technology development to financing. This way, everyone knows where we stand and what we are working towards,” Karsten explains.

Attracting the Right People

Finding the right people for a small company like Biograil requires creativity. Karsten taps into his network and collaborates with headhunters when necessary. He focuses on creating a culture where employees experience freedom and trust.

“People have great freedom here. No one is keeping an eye on whether you leave early one day. It must be driven by their own engagement and desire to contribute,” he explains.

However, Karsten also acknowledges that it requires a special type of employee to fit into Biograil’s environment.

“For example, if you’re a strong individualist, you might struggle here. It’s all about teamwork and collaboration.”

Leadership with Emotion and Honesty

Karsten describes himself as an emotional person who openly shares his thoughts and observations. He is not afraid of difficult conversations but approaches them with a balanced and empathetic mindset.

“I speak with my emotions and try to understand how people feel,” he says.

The goal of this approach is to create a culture where employees feel safe and heard. Feedback and reflection are natural parts of daily work, and Karsten emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and listening to those around him.

A Vision for the Future

Biograil seems to be on the verge of potential explosive growth. With their technology and collaborations with major players like CSL and Eli Lilly, the path is paved for major results. However, for Karsten, the company’s future is not solely defined by its technology, it is the culture that needs to carry it forward.

“Company culture is just as important as our scientific work,” Karsten says, confident that Biograil can grow without compromising the values that have led to its success.

Biograil stands as an inspiring example of how transparency, well-being, and respect for differences can create a company culture that not only attracts talent but also motivates people to make a difference. A focus that is just as crucial as results in a modern workplace.

We thank Karsten for sharing his insights and experiences with Power of People, and we look forward to following Biograil’s exciting journey ahead.