Every business will encounter some kind of a challenge, whether it’s a budget problem or a down turn in sales. It’s these challenging times that one’s leadership is tested—and most importantly, demanded. Here are some attitudes that small business owners need to have in order to successfully steer their business through a bump.
Attitude is everything. Leaders must not point fingers or grow defensive, but adopt an open mind and a sincere desire to find and solve the problem. Be ready to accept mistakes. Be honest and humble. Don’t be defensive in case you unearth not-very-pleasant things about your business, your staff or yourself
Make your employees or staff your partners for change. Help them know you are not doing this to jeopardize their position, or put blame on anyone. Share with them your objectives and the big picture of seeing your business set up improve.
It’s also important to be proactive. Being proactive is the opposite of being reactive. If you find the root or source of your problems, try not to dwell too much on the negatives and instead shift your focus on possible solutions. Confirm the root of your problem, analyze the cause, and take back control of the situation by quickly moving on to find out how to cure the problem and make things work better.
And most of all, it’s important to empower people to make the necessary changes. You can not save your business on your own. Invite people to be part of the process, and help them set goals and find out how you can help them achieve them.
Photo from leadership-toolbox.com