By Scott Vollero
By Scott Vollero
Successful entrepreneurs are great at a lot of things. They think outside the box, they see the big picture, they're willing to take risks and they're determined to succeed. What entrepreneurs may not be so great at, though, is being the boss.
Delegation doesn't come naturally to most entrepreneurs. If you're an entrepreneur who has either already hired people or getting ready to, you owe it to yourself and your employees to learn how to boss effectively. If you don't, it doesn't matter how talented your employees, they'll walk out the door.
Follow these tips to find your inner boss and make sure your employees stay happy and productive.
Delegate and Let Go
You're good, but admit it — you aren't an expert on everything. That's precisely the reason you hire people — to fill your skills and knowledge gaps, give you time to pursue big picture solutions and to provide a solid and well-rounded functioning business.
“Delegating is difficult for many entrepreneurs because up to this point, they've been doing everything themselves.”—Scott Vollero
Entrepreneurs like being in control. Allowing someone else to take over a specific area seems unnatural and frightening.
But, if you're confident you hired the right people, delegate to them and let them do their jobs. Resist the urge to micromanage. Empower employees to make decisions within their assigned area and back them up if an issue occurs.
Adapt to Personalities
Remarkable employees come in a lot of different packages. One person may be boisterous and work best in an environment around other people. Another may be more introspective and works best in a quiet place without a lot of distractions. Put each person in the environment that lets them be the best they can be.
You also have to adapt your management style to fit each individual's needs. Some people may prefer lots of face time to talk things out. Others may prefer written communication and the opportunity to discuss work as they need. There is no “one size fits all” when you work with people. Get to know each employee well enough to learn the most effective ways of motivating them.
Show Yourself
Employees won't get behind you if they see you as an aloof entity. To truly engage employees, they must view you as part of the same team. Sure, they expect you to direct them in their work, but they also want to know who you are and see you as a real person.
Become transparent. When you make decisions, explain your reasoning. If possible, include your team in the decision-making process. If you make a mistake, admit it. Ask for your team's help during crisis situations. Your company succeeds when you and your employees pull together and are all invested in its success.
Remember They're Human
Your employees are human beings with lives outside of work. Sure, that sounds obvious; but you’d be surprised at the number of managers who act like their employees are machines. An employee may need extra time off work at some point or need assistance with a personal situation. Be generous. Figure out ways to reduce work stress levels and help them out during the crisis. It's what great bosses do.
Make the Tough Decisions
Yes, being a boss means empowering employees and giving them the best possible environment in which to work. But if an employee is simply not working out or lacks the desire to improve, it's your job to let them go. An ineffective employee not only isn't productive, but can reduce the morale of your top people. You can't let the situation fester. Be a boss and make the tough decisions.
Bio: Scott Vollero is an international entrepreneur and expert in the precious metals and automotive parts recycling industries.
