Build a Team That’s Ready to Scale

Remember the first house you purchased or built? It’s probably not the house that you’re in now. What changed? A growing family, business success, relocation opportunity, kids leave the nest, or as you got a little older, your needs and tastes may have changed. All valid reasons for either a bigger or smaller house.

Think about your business five, 10, or 20 years ago. What was the structure and the sales volume and how does that compare to the business today? Has anything changed that would cause you to re-think the “size” or skillset of your team? There is a long list of changes that have taken place outside of your four walls over that time and you need to make sure that everyone on the team has kept up. You also have to make sure that you have the skills and thinking on your team to get you to that next level.

What’s that next level for you? Is the business running well, at an even keel and no changes necessary, or has your expansion put pressure on the system. Added pressure can sometimes highlight the strengths or highlight the gaps in any operation. Where are your weak points and what might happen if you don’t address them?

Take an audit of the skills and the thinking that goes on within your team and identify any of the areas that might need improvement. With an adult conversation, a solid plan, and the right attitude, most of your folks can and will rise to the occasion. Without addressing it though, those same folks may become obstacles to your forward progress. Two things to remember as you consider this, you need folks in every role who can play their position, and finally, you get what you tolerate. Time to take action.

Have a clear picture of where you want to go, a map of how to get there and create the team that you deserve. If you have any comments or thoughts as to how you’ve approached these issues, please include them below.

Mike Philie can help validate what’s working and what may need to change in your business. Changing the trajectory of a business is difficult to do while simultaneously operating the core competencies. Mike provides strategy and insight to owners and CEOs in the Graphic Communications Industry by providing direct and realistic assessments, not being afraid to voice the unpopular opinion and helping leaders navigate change through a common sense and practical approach. Learn more at www.philiegroup.com (launching soon), LinkedIn or email at mphilie@philiegroup.com.