This article is sponsored by PECO, an Exelon Company.
Starting your own business is an amazing achievement.
In addition to hard work, running a successful enterprise requires leadership skills beyond just telling people what to do. An effective leader can have a huge impact on their staff, as well as their business goals. To make sure your staff is productive, motivated, and connected to your overall plans, there are certain attributes a business leader can hone in hopes of achieving a positive outcome for all.
Here are a few tips for being a better small business leader.
Open communication
Maintaining open lines of communication is essential for making your employees feel seen and heard. Being transparent with your staff also helps build trust and can improve office morale. In turn, your staff will be more comfortable with communicating their ideas and concerns back to you.
Learn to be a good listener
Once communication has been established, make sure you are actually hearing what your staff is sharing with you. Employees at all levels may have creative ideas or answers to problems that could help to reach your business goals. If someone makes a suggestion that winds up being implemented with desired results, be sure to give them the proper credit.
Invest in your staff’s growth
Your employee’s success is your company’s success. Make sure your staff knows you are interested in seeing them reach their own professional goals. Empowering employees with opportunities that challenge them and also further enhances their skills is one way of ensuring employee retention. If applicable and within your budget, consider offering to pay for any virtual or in-person courses pertinent to their job that could also add to their skillset.
Give up some control
Delegating is key to running any successful endeavor. While you may be used to doing everything, there comes a time when you have to have talented members of your staff undertake certain tasks so you can concentrate on larger issues. Giving up control may sound scary, but if you’ve made smart hiring choices then letting your employees take on bigger responsibilities will also allow your business and your staff to reach their potential.
For more from KYW Newsradio:
- Download the Audacy App
- Listen live
- Listen on your smart speaker