Achieving effective results should be at the heart of every business – whatever this means!
We have been looking at ‘achieving results‘ from two different viewpoints which, taken together, present an interesting dichotomy….
- In this post, Duncan looks at the value of getting input from all members of a team
- In the Marketing Matters Podcast, we talk about the challenges of getting your project ‘over the line’
Each of the above makes sense on its own merits. However, taken together they present a conflict. The more people involved in setting and achieving a goal, the more chance of inconsistency and slippage. Either of these can threaten a successful outcome.
As a consequence, many SME business owners find themselves backed into a corner where ultimately, all responsibility comes back to them. Hard work! The team may be willing but they do what they are told!
Give real responsibility to the team – but keep the focus on getting the job done. This can be challenging!
Resolving the conflict…
It is a common mantra at BSA, but it undoubtedly, at the heart of every effective business process is an agreed plan with clear SMART* objectives
*SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timed – more information here
If you want to get the benefit of input to your business drawing on the experience of your team members but not risk your plans slipping and failing, a clear plan is the best way to communicate your ideas to others and give them the context in which to add their own suggestions.
Ownership, review and leadership
Having a plan is a great starting point but every member of the team must take ownership of the plan and acknowledge/accept the responsibility for their part in delivering the results. It is important that every element of the plan is ‘owned’ by a member of the team.
The best way to avoid slippage is regular review. These can be formal or informal though at least some more formal review is sensible. Any issues can be picked up, discussed and resolved before they get to big. Reviews can also make sure that actions and target dates are clear and acknowledged by everyone.
As a business owner, aiming for effective results, it may be that your most effcicient approach is to drive the overall process while team members take ownership and responsibility for the elements of the plan that suit their individual experience and skillset.
It isn’t necessary that, as a business owner, you have to do everything. It is much better to effectively involve your team. Your one essential contribution to achieving effective results is Leadership.
