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Lead by example. Most of us have encountered this saying a few, if not many times throughout our lives. At one time or another one of our parents may have suggested we set a good example for a sibling. A coach or teacher may have suggested something similar as well. The game of business plays similar to the game of life and this timeless adage holds true throughout the small business world. One of the most effective ways any small business owner can motivate fellow team members is simply to lead by example.
Actions still speak louder than words, particularly when your behaviors and philosophies motivate others to be their best at work. Saying one thing and acting to the contrary only frustrates and de-motivates the team working with you. One of the quickest ways to weaken morale and wreak havoc on your business is to implement a new policy and procedure and immediately exempt yourself from complying.
Here are 10 useful strategies for modeling behavior that will foster loyalty, inspire your employees to be their best, and help your company continue grow:
- Always tell the Truth. Promote honesty at all levels within your organization. Even small "white" lies must not be tolerated. Emphasize being honest across all levels and departments; hold everyone accountable to commitments that have been made within the organization. Besides spoken words, encourage everyone to maintain honesty by doing what they say; be on time, take responsibility for your actions, and most importantly, own any and all short comings or failures. Just think of the disgraced companies recently in the news that learned the hard way. With today's fluid transfer of information around the globe it is imperative that everyone in the organization practice and promote honest business practices.
- Look outside your self and organization for advice . The most successful people throughout history surrounded themselves with a team of advisers that often were more skilled themselves. Show others in the organization that you take other people's advice seriously and that you are humble enough to know that regardless of where you sit within your company there are others that may have
- Own your own shortcomings and share the success . The best way for a leader to lose credibility is to play the blame game. If you screw up, admit it. If you simply forgot, are late, miss a deadline, admit that too. In other words, step up to the plate every time and take responsibility for your actions. This encourages everyone to be accountable for what they do and say and set the right tone within your organization.
- Praise often and openly. Being the boss does not mean that you have to continually critique your team and provide negative motivation. Everyone needs a kind word and encouragement now and then, not just your star performers. The more you reward those on your team, the more you'll notice motivated employees who continue do good work and in turn recognize each others efforts.
- Inspire those around you. Focus on your mission and ensure all members of your team understand why there are here and what it is that you all do. Infuse your language (including written communication) with passion and purpose. Let people know that you're excited about what the company is doing, whether it's a new product launch, sponsorship of a major trade show, or recognition in a magazine.
- Live the mission. Make sure that every employee from top-level management to the night janitorial crew understands and is able to articulate the mission of the company. It is critical that all team members understand what it is that they do and why they do it. Give people a mission, a compelling reason why they come to work every day, and you will inspire purpose. The more inspired and fired up your team is, the more likely everyone will continue to be fulfilled by the company's mission. Spend time articulating the mission and make sure that everyone associated with the organization understands how their individual roles benefits the company and the clients it serves.
- Acknowledge those around you. Share success and responsibilities among all team members. Keep everyone actively engaged in the overall mission of the company and give credit to everyone that contributes to each successful task. Ensure that every team member is recognized for their unique contributions to the organization from time to time, and always share your own successes as if they were your team members. Let's face it, without them, you would not be able to do what you do.
- Share the wealth. If the company is profitable initiate a bonus plan. Link all compensation to performance, especially the performance and profitability of the company. In order to be # 1 in your industry you are going to need to recruit and retain the best people in your field. Openly share financial information within your organization and motivate all team members to improve profitability and efficiency. The rewards must be consistent and measured against the company's success in order to help motivate.
- Get down in the trenches. Show everyone that when a job needs to get done it gets done. This means checking in with your team on critical projects and rolling up your sleeves when needed. This does not mean sticking your nose in where it does not belong and taking unnecessary control. Be conscious of not taking back control of a project or task that was originally assigned to someone else. Instead, ask them what they need for support and go the extra mile to ensure they receive all the help they need. Show your employees that when things need to be accomplished you are able to assist anyone at any time within the organization.
- Live in integrity. Motivating your employees through passion and purpose is important. At the same time they must believe that you walk the walk as much as you talk the talk. Do what you say and deliver on what you promise. Be early to meetings, finish what you start, and most importantly follow the mission of your organization.
By implementing these (10) strategies and leading by example you will be well on your way to fulfilling your purpose and mission within your business. As they say, "Do what you say and practice what you preach!" You'll be amazed by the results of following this timeless advice.
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Source by Kevin Aubrey