The key to unlocking potential in your business

Something we are regularly asked by business owners is: what is the key to unlocking the potential that I know exists in my business? Our answer is simple. Equip your Managers with leadership skills.

As soon as you get into the realms of growth where you have a team of 20 people or more, your management structure and their individual abilities to lead, manage and motivate people becomes key to your success.

A manager must possess a diverse set of skills and adopt specific strategies tailored to the needs of their team, and it is usually a very different set of skills which got them to be in a management position in the first place – which tends to be competency or expert knowledge in a given field. To give you a flavour of what we mean, here are the top things a manager needs to be able to do:

1. Lead by Example: A manager must set the standard by demonstrating the behaviours and values they want to see in their team. Leading by example builds trust and respect, inspiring employees to follow suit.
2. Communicate Clearly: Effective communication is crucial in leadership and management. A manager should articulate goals, expectations, and feedback clearly and transparently, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
3. Inspire a Shared Vision: A great leader creates a compelling vision that inspires and excites the team. A clear and motivating vision gives employees a sense of purpose and direction towards their individual contribution in achieving it.
4. Empower and Delegate: Managers should empower their team members by delegating tasks and responsibilities according to individual strengths and skills. This fosters a sense of ownership and accountability.
5. Provide Support and Resources: Motivation thrives in an environment where employees feel supported. A manager should ensure their team has the necessary resources, training, and guidance to succeed.
6. Recognise and Reward: Acknowledging and celebrating employee achievements and efforts boosts morale and encourages continued dedication. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in motivating team members.
7. Develop and Mentor: A manager should invest in the professional development of their team members. Providing opportunities for growth and offering mentorship can enhance motivation and loyalty.
8. Encourage Collaboration: Building a collaborative and inclusive culture fosters creativity and teamwork. A manager should encourage open communication and collaboration among team members.
9. Listen and Be Approachable: Being a good listener and approachable leader allows employees to share their ideas, concerns, and feedback without hesitation, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
10. Handle Conflict and Challenges: Conflict resolution is a vital skill for a manager. Addressing conflicts promptly and fairly helps maintain a harmonious team dynamic and boosts motivation.
11. Promote Work-Life Balance: Recognise the importance of work-life balance and encourage employees to maintain a healthy equilibrium between their personal and professional lives.
12. Lead through Change: Change is inevitable in any organisation. A manager should guide their team through periods of change, offering reassurance, and helping employees adapt to new circumstances.
13. Monitor Progress and Provide Feedback: Regularly track progress towards goals and provide constructive feedback to help team members improve their performance and stay motivated. Don’t underestimate the power of a one to one.
14. Celebrate Success: Celebrate team successes, big and small, to foster a positive and rewarding work environment. Publicly recognising accomplishments boosts team spirit and encourages continued excellence.

We’ve said it before and we will say it again, it is vital to ensure your managers understand these are the areas they are responsible for, and are equipped with the skills, tools and knowledge to be able to do so effectively. Upskilling your existing managers with leadership development can make all of the difference in creating a high-performing and engaged workforce that contributes to the success of your business. Our leadership development programme is delivered in a flexible, adult-learning environment to suit your organisational needs. Get in touch to find out more: [email protected]