Build a Strong Bench

As the leader of your business, you’re the one who’s expected to see around corners and solve all major issues. It’s a huge responsibility, but that’s what you signed up for. However, as you scale the business, it becomes clear that it’s not only about you; it’s about the depth and strength of your team. Some team members may have been hired specifically for their current roles, while others have worked their way into their positions over time. As the company grows, the team needs to continue to learn and evolve, and ensuring this growth is your responsibility.

Sell Your Vision

Not every member of your senior team will buy into your vision. Some will argue that it’s too ambitious, while others will push to go even further. This debate is healthy and essential for identifying the right path forward. However, you may also encounter a team member who doesn’t engage at all. It’s crucial to understand whether they are merely following the vocal majority or if their silence stems from valid concerns. Their silence could indicate underlying issues within the team that need to be addressed. Engaging with these quieter voices can reveal insights and potential problems that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Skill Development

The decision-making and critical thinking skills that got someone their job in the past may not be adequate for today’s challenges. The pace of technological change is unprecedented, and your business has morphed into something more complex and faster-paced. Your clients and staff demand excellence and won’t tolerate mediocrity. Therefore, continuous skill development is vital. Encourage your team to stay ahead of industry trends, invest in ongoing education, and provide opportunities for them to enhance their abilities. This approach ensures that your team remains capable of handling the evolving demands of your business.

Teamwork Rules

A strong team chemistry can make the most difficult situations look easy to navigate. When team members understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses and can work together seamlessly, they can tackle challenges more effectively. Building this chemistry requires intentional effort. Create opportunities for team bonding, encourage open communication, and foster an environment where collaboration is valued over competition. This unity will be a significant asset when facing complex problems and tight deadlines.

Core Values are Not a Sometime Thing

Core values are the lubricant that keeps all the parts of your business moving in concert with minimal interruption and drama. They either are your core values, or they aren’t! Making exceptions for the rock stars of your business might seem effective in the short term, but it usually doesn’t end well. Consistency in upholding your values is crucial. It sets a standard for everyone to follow and maintains the integrity of your company culture. When everyone understands and aligns with the core values, it creates a cohesive and motivated workforce.

Promoting your values also offers a fantastic opportunity for personal and professional development. Leverage your network, learn intentionally, and help those around you develop their skills. As a leader, you should be a mentor and a coach, guiding your team to reach their full potential. This not only benefits the individuals but also strengthens the entire organization.

Make Change Your Friend

As your business grows, change is inevitable. Embracing change rather than resisting it is crucial for continued success. Encourage a mindset of adaptability within your team. This involves being open to new ideas, experimenting with different approaches, and learning from failures. A culture that embraces change is more resilient and better equipped to handle the uncertainties of the business world.

Empowering Your Team

Empower your team by delegating responsibilities and trusting them to make decisions. Micromanaging can stifle creativity and hinder growth. Instead, provide clear guidelines and expectations, then give your team the autonomy to execute their tasks. This empowerment boosts morale, fosters innovation, and allows you to focus on strategic initiatives.

Failure to Communicate is not an Option

Effective communication is the backbone of any successful team. Ensure that there are open channels for feedback and that everyone feels heard. Regularly scheduled meetings, transparent reporting, and an open-door policy can all contribute to a culture of open communication. Address conflicts promptly and constructively, and ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the company’s goals and progress.

Being the leader of a growing business is about more than just making the big decisions; it’s about fostering a team that can grow and evolve with the company. By focusing on vision, skills, teamwork, values, adaptability, empowerment, and communication, you can build a robust team capable of navigating the challenges ahead. Remember, your success as a leader is reflected in the success of your team. Invest in them, and they will help drive your business to new heights.

Any thoughts on this? If you are already doing this, let us know how it’s going. If you want to get started down this path, let me know. Good luck.

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 advice, 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, LinkedIn or email at mphilie@philiegroup.com.