How to Up Your Game as a Business Owner
Being a business owner is exciting and rewarding, but it’s also highly demanding. You oversee day-to-day operations, plan long-term goals, and safeguard your business from different types of threats and risk. Add to that, your multiple roles and responsibilities in your personal life and it’s no wonder you may feel pulled in many directions.
One thing you shouldn’t lose sight of is continuing to up your leadership game by practicing self-improvement activities and investing in your own professional development. What areas of leadership development you should focus on depends on the type of business you own, the number of employees you have, and many other factors. To get started, assess yourself against these four key traits every business leader should develop to succeed. Then, think about what other qualities will make you become a more effective leader.
Honesty. The ability to be open and honest in your dealings with employees, customers, and vendors is critical. Earning a reputation for meaning what you say and backing up your commitments will help you build strong relationships and earn trust and loyalty.
Vision. A good leader possesses a strong sense of purpose (the why) and direction (the how). A leader must also be able to communicate the vision clearly and inspire others to work towards achieving it.
Engagement. When business owners are personally involved and demonstrate authentic commitment toward their team, their company and their community, they inspire goodwill and create an environment people want to be a part of. Find ways to facilitate, strengthen, and inspire meaningful connections with both employees and external relationships. Consider routine check-ins, group activities, and celebrations as opportunities to stay engaged.
Respect. When leaders show they sincerely care about others, they build stronger relationships. People are more motivated when they know their efforts are recognized and valued. One of the most appreciated gestures a leader can make is to give credit where it’s due by acknowledging the contributions of others.
These four key leadership traits are by no means the only ones you’ll need, but they provide a solid foundation for building your reputation as a strong and effective leader.