This article originally appeared on bizjournals.com/charlotte.
You’ve probably realized that there are few guarantees in life. For some, that’s hard to accept and might cause anxiety. Nonetheless, a track record of success is not necessarily indicative of what the future might hold. Countless events happen along the way, forcing us to reassess and recalibrate.
The foundation of any business is critical. However, cracks will naturally develop over time. A leader’s reaction to these cracks is vital to the livelihood of the entire operation. It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish. We’re all familiar with this saying. In this case, it’s about how you maintain, grow and advance.
Here are a few things to focus on in order to cultivate future success.
Humbly accept outside perspectives
The founder or founders started the business with a big idea. If you’re one of them, you must be open to outside perspectives and ideas. This will allow that idea to carry on in the best way possible. Seeing and correcting your own faults is pivotal. This can be a sobering exercise, but it’s an essential part of reaching new heights and remaining relevant.
Control growth
What’s your goal for 2021? When posed this question, most business owners would include growth somewhere in their answer. Growth is great if you’re doing it for the right reasons. But with growth comes plenty of challenges. It’s not for the faint of heart because the process will uncover imperfections. For example, it will show you whether you have the right team and whether you are really ready to grow. So, grow at the right pace.
Manage your people
A lot of people fall short when it comes to managing their direct reports. They somehow expect them to manage themselves. This causes all sorts of issues. People want direction and support. There is a big difference between micromanaging and doing what is expected from a managerial perspective. Don’t sell your organization and people short. Stay involved by setting them up to play their roles at a high level.
Utilize technology
Technology can be a game-changer when it comes to enhancing communication and improving efficiency. Each business is different. This is where the evaluation and adoption of tools within your business come into play. Find and place technology within your organization where it makes sense. Don’t force it. These tools should support what you’re doing and make life easier. They should not serve as the entire basis for your existence.
Lead
This doesn’t need much explanation. If you’re in a position of leadership, do just that. Your people are fully aware of the way you respond and what words you choose to communicate. When fires arise, take a few minutes behind the scenes with the rest of your leadership team to sort through them. This will allow you to proceed with a sober-minded approach rather than running on pure emotion.
Every day is a new opportunity to fight for your people and their potential, push an idea forward, or tackle a challenge. Solid past performance doesn’t mean future success, but what you do today does.
