When I started my business, there was very little help was available for small businesses in my industry. I learned a lot on my own. I want to help you avoid the many mistakes I made. With these simple tips and tools, you can create a thriving business to be proud of, maintain a loyal team, gain longevity, boost company cultural morale and lead well.
BE PRESENT! In any industry, it’s vital that YOU, as a leader, are present! It is not enough to be present in ownership and title, and to occasionally be there physically. To be effective, you must lead by example physically, mentally and socially, and to be emotionally invested in your industry. It’s difficult to lead your team without mutual trust, loyalty or respect, and you can only gain these by building strong relationships within the company.
Build strong relationships with your staff. You do this by changing your mindset. Understand that, as a leader, that you are the greatest servant to your staff. How you treat them makes a huge impact on the success of your company. For instance, ask a team member how her mother’s surgery went, and be emotionally invested enough to send get well soon flowers. Another example is staging a Staff Appreciation Day – take your team on a spa day or host a company barbecue just to say, “Thank you for a job well done.”
Team members must know you are there in the trenches right alongside them, and that you have their backs and best interest at heart on a daily basis. Being present means that you not only care about the business, but you also care about your team and helping them succeed! Being present helps to build strong relationships and helps to develop a strong team! They need you.