When going through a business journey that involves KPIs, stressing about finance and taking the business to the next level, or working on big deals, we might forget to listen to the team.
We tend to focus on “getting sh$% done” enough to forget that they are the most integral cog in our machine, and without their devotion, effectiveness, and care, we will achieve nothing.
When we stop paying attention to our team they become less and less caring, less and less invested in your success to the point that that cog might break, and with that you will have a business that is broken.
6. KEY. ELEMENTS. THAT. MAKE. A STRONG. TEAM
There are six key elements every team I have ever worked with has wanted from you (the business owner, the team leader, or the national sales manager).
1. MANAGEMENT. NOT. MICRO. MANAGEMENT.
Sounds the same, but really, it’s not. A team needs boundaries and clarity. A team player who runs successfully without boundaries or clarity is rare (if you have one stick by him/her and never let go). Most of us need positive direction and clear instruction. In other words, sound management. Once you have laid the rules & provided position and task clarity, observe and assist DON’T micromanage.
2. GIVE. HONEST. FEEDBACK.
Honest feedback is a way to teach and mentor, so use the mentoring loop: teach, delegate, observe, adjust and go through the results. Discuss the results directly with them as it is the only way to learn. Do not discuss with other team members or the boss. Honesty helps build a better team, one that wants to thrive for you.
3. KNOWLEDGE. AND. TRAINING.
Some will learn by jumping into the water and swimming, but most will need training. Your team needs detailed knowledge and responsibilities, they need the tools to learn “how to”, negotiate and succeed. Unfortunately, only 40% provide external training for their staff and out of this statistic 70% are Government organisations as opposed to private enterprise or small / medium size businesses.
4. LET. THEM. MAKE. MISTAKES.
Making mistakes and learning from them is just as important as training. Don’t crucify your staff when they make an error. Work with them on understanding it, use it as a teaching tool. Remember to notice when they hit some positive goals.
5. BE. INSPIRING.
If your team is not inspired by you, they won’t work for you. But how do you inspire? By listening and demonstrating the same work ethic you expect from them. Make your team aware they are an important part of the big picture and ensure they always feel job safe.
6. LISTEN. CLOSELY.
When they speak, you listen! It sounds easy but sometimes we think we know what they are going through, so we don’t really listen. That’s not good enough. Be open to new ideas and constructive criticism. Don’t use tunnel vision and be open.
Building your team can be a daunting task, but if you follow some easy steps, you can ensure your team works like a close-knit tribe that will go the extra mile for you.
Build them, celebrate them, and learn how to be an inspiring leader. Your team will follow.
