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Very few people can read your mind. You might think your
spouse or partner can. However, we doubt an employee can know you so well and
be in such sync with you that you can float through the business and the things
you want to see happen just happen. In the very funny movie released in 2000
called, "What Women Want," Mel Gibson played a Chicago advertising executive
who was able read women's minds. This ability turned out to be a tremendous
asset but sadly, most of us can't do it.
Tom Gegax built a
business from nothing to hundreds of millions in sales. He says that no one
wants a boss but everyone wants a coach and that the key to coaching is clear
communication.
Topic for
Discussion: What are the four steps in Tom's coaching process?
Answer:
First he tries to understand the expectations of the other person. Next he
gives his instructions in clear, plain language. Third, he offers feedback.
Finally, he asks the person he is working with to tell him how he is doing.
This fourth step is hard because people at first are shy to tell you the truth
especially if they have something negative to say. Tom says that to get true
feedback from another person may mean you have to ask at least three times!
Topic for
Discussion: Why is the people part of business so difficult?
Answer:
Every person is so different, working with people can never be completely under
control or systematized. One big problem most small business owners have is
thinking that everyone is like them. Nothing could be further from the truth.
While a small business owner is usually motivated by challenge, most people are
motivated by appreciation.
So, the difficulty
is at the root and must first be understood, then dealt with. The business
owner must create an environment for others to thrive. Don't build the
environment the business owner wants, build the environment the employee wants.
The employee wants appreciation, recognition and to know he/she is part of an
organization that delivers what is promised.
You think about
it: In what ways are you creating an environment where your employees will
thrive? How can you improve your corporate culture to meet the needs of
employees? What are your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to your
communication skills? Which of these four steps do you do well? Which do you do
poorly? What can you do to improve? |
