4 things every business owner should have up their sleeve

They say that every business owner has a trick or two up his, or her, sleeve in order to get the very best from employees and ensure that everything is running smoothly. If you really want to make it in this life, though, it can often be handy to keep a few more ideas up there besides…

1. An incentive

Whether you call it encouragement, motivation, or the final reward, it’s essential for every business owner to have a little incentive up their sleeve on a daily basis. What’s going to inspire your troops to work their hardest? How can you convince your team that the late nights are worth it? Incentive can go a long way in business, and it’s essential to show your employees that you’re willing to reward effort and results. Now, the type of incentive that you offer, be it a lighthearted competition, cash bonus, or prizes, can vary; it’s the thought that counts, after all.

2. A list of priorities

When all else fails, prioritise. You may have a ‘to do’ list as long as your office, but sometimes we just have to cut our losses and look at the things that are really important. What tasks should be done by the end of the day, and what could wait until tomorrow? If you’re feeling a little daunted tear up the ‘to do’ novel and start again with something much more manageable. You’ll feel much more productive crossing through completed jobs than you ever could while you’re staring at a list that isn’t going anywhere.

3. A tissue

Now, carrying a tissue up your sleeve can be incredibly useful for all sorts of coughs, colds, and emotional outbreaks, but I’m referring to a slightly more metaphorical tissue; a good business owner always knows when to look out for his or her team, and when a little empathy is required. To be a good leader you need to not only look after your staff, but to look out for them too. Is someone a little slower than normal this week? Has a team member had a little too much time off? Understanding will get you a long way when it comes to running a business, and you will find staff members are far more encouraged to work with you, rather than for you, if they know you’re listening.

4. A smile

Okay, so this last one should probably be worn a little higher up than your sleeve, but during a difficult week it can often feel a little like your smile has disappeared for good. It’s important to remember that nothing inspires a team like positive reinforcement, so be prepared to whip that smile out and don a brave face whenever you’re with company. That one smile can do the world of good, to others as well as yourself, so be sure to save it for a rainy day.

If you have a few tricks of your own please let us know; we love hearing about your ideas to inspire and encourage staff members, and could probably all use a little help from time to time.