Lead by Example to Grow Your Business

What makes a business grow? Leadership. The leadership and vision of the entrepreneur light the way for business success. You and your employees follow the course you have set for the business. Be sure that you lead by example when it comes to working hard, valuing lifelong learning and appreciating employees contributions. Your personal attitudes and actions influence those around you.

Some people just love their chosen occupation and nothing makes them happier than doing a good job. They enjoy meeting and helping people. They’re enthusiastic. These owners are enthusiastic and positive around everyone—especially customers and employees. People want to be surrounded by positive people. A leader who may not be charismatic, but is positive draws a positive response from those he or she interacts with. A positive outlook can help develop a can do attitude among employees and can generate a feeling of goodwill among customers.

Many successful business people participate in lifelong learning through personal and professional activities and studies. Those entrepreneurs who are open to new ideas and new ways of doing things have the best chance for success. The willingness and ability to respond to change are a competitive advantage in business large or small. For the adept entrepreneur this speed means quicker adjustments to products and services, so the company is delivering exactly what the consumers want just in time.

Owners have a personal and professional interest vested in the success of their business. Extend that interest to the employees who help you get the job done. The company’s success depends upon its leadership and part of leadership is valuing employees, so they work not for just a paycheck but for job satisfaction. Offering fair wages, good working conditions and opportunities for improvement help you attain and retain qualified employees.

Successful business owners are optimistic about where there business is going and have a clear picture of the results they seek. The business leader is able to "paint the picture" for employees, so they can share in the company vision and become more vested in the company’s success. That same business owner projects his or her sense of confidence, which reassures both employees and customers that this is a stable and successful business.

There is power in positive thinking. And, there is power in leading by example and motivating those around you. If you would like to discuss strategic planning, lifelong learning programs, employee benefits or customer service issues, contact the SCORE Association (Service Corps of Retired Executives). More than 12,000 volunteer, business counselors donate their time and talent to assist America’s entrepreneurs. SCORE is a nonprofit association, which offers small business counseling as a free and confidential community service. For a referral to the SCORE chapter nearest you, call 1 (800) 634-0245.

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