As your business grows, so does your team. And as your team grows, your role as a leader changes. It’s a whole new ballgame!
You’re still running the show, but you’re no longer doing it all. AND THAT IS GOOD. It’s a blessing and a privilege to have a team to help build your dream business.
The key is learning how to use them well.
Playing your team to their strengths is one of the absolute best things you can do for your business. Here are some tips to get you started:
Give them the work you said you would.
Don’t hire someone and immediately pull a 180 on them!
Ask them what they want to learn.
Your business likely has a lot of work that needs to be done. Ask your team where they’d like to improve/help out.
Give them constructive feedback.
Most people WANT to improve. Give them kind feedback when needed.
Thank and congratulate them.
Make sure your employees know when they’ve done good work!
Understand the work you’re handing off.
Even if the project isn’t a strength of yours, it’s important that you understand it. Make sure your team feels comfortable asking questions and you feel comfortable giving answers!
You’ve hired your employees for a reason. They’ve accepted the job for a reason. Use their abilities well! Giving them real, valuable work makes them feel valued and trusted. Understanding what you’re handing off helps them feel supported. And actually including your team by passing off work to them takes weight off of YOUR shoulders.
Trust me – I know handing off work to others is HARD. Even if I trust the person 100%, it’s always a little bit scary not being involved in every project from start to finish. But, my business wouldn’t have grown as much as it has without the help I’ve had along the way. I’m able to serve more clients and increase our revenue by trusting my team to do the great work I know they can do.
So, let me pass on a few words of wisdom when it comes to letting go a bit…
- Don’t rush through hiring.
- Don’t procrastinate hiring, either.
- Establish clear expectations.
- Leave time to proof work. (You can likely let this go eventually as well!)
- Celebrate the team you’ve built.
- Turn off your computer during days off.
- Check in, but don’t be overbearing.
At the end of the day, remember that you have the power and opportunity to build your starting lineup. Ultimately, if someone isn’t working for your team, you don’t have to make it work. But, more often than not, you’ll hire people who believe in your business’ mission, who are talented and capable of helping you build your business. Trust them and give them room to flourish! You’ll be amazed at how you see your business change and how much weight has been lifted off of your shoulders. Trust me, it’s the best sigh of relief!
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to set your starting lineup!
