It’s not often that people cry during our offsite leadership meetings – powerful all-day sessions where we help leadership teams focus on their business. After all, these are business meetings – not therapy sessions. But the flow of tears happens more times than I would have imagined before I started my coaching practice.
But it makes sense. My clients are passionate people who care deeply about their businesses. It’s more than just business – it’s their lives!
Consider this for a minute—no matter what title is on your business card, be it foreman, supervisor, manager, president or chief executive officer—the people who report to you call you their boss.
The word “boss” comes from the Dutch word “baas,” originally a term of respect used to address a person in charge. When you consider the original meaning, being called a boss feels pretty good doesn’t it? Accept the title “boss” with pride. You’re in charge. Be in charge. Take pride in the responsibility but don’t become arrogant or take the title “boss” for granted.
Have you ever met people who exude passion from their pores? These individuals believe in their cause so much they live and breathe it 24 hours a day. In sports, these are the coaches and athletes who lead with enthusiasm, conviction and heart. Think Peyton Manning and Brett Favre. Passion propels them right through obstacles, exhibiting personal sacrifice and sustained discipline to win championships.
In business, these are managers, entrepreneurs, and CEOs who lead with the same vitality; they are tenacious, and manage with passion.
For a lot of my clients right now, sales is not the issue, but I’m a believer in getting ahead of the curve. Figure out what’s working, get on the same page with the whole team, inspire everyone to cement client loyalty and identify new prospects! And give your team the tools they need.
A good leader is always aware of his or her return on investment (ROI), whether that’s ROI on technology, people or equipment.
Imagine you’ve founded a service business with about 100 employees. When asked, you explain your role as being involved with everything, especially Sales and Marketing, and Operations. One day, as you arrive at your weekly meeting, your right-hand man tells you, “You’re fired.”
