PREPARING TO WIN – IMPROVING YOUR MANAGEMENT & LEADERSHIP SKILLS

The management and leadership skill of a small business owner is often one area that is neglected in a small business. Taking the time out for personal and professionally development is equally as important as securing new business.


Improving management and leadership skills is often a task that remains on the ‘to do list’. It is understandable given the nature of a small business. That is many small business owners frequently work long hours or take on several tasks within the business – hence there is little time left to focus on professional development.

Taking time out to engage in additional management and leadership training can lead to improved productivity and employee performance. Motivating employees and sharing your vision with them can go a long way towards improving business productivity. Your business can only develop as much as the owner develops professionally.

Traits of an Effective Leader

Being able to create and share your vision

Everyone involved in your business should be aware of your vision. As employees work, the organisation’s vision should be in the forefront of their mind. Understanding of how roles and responsibilities aid the business promotes a feeling of being involved in the business and a set of advocates that will promote and advertise your business freely.

A leader must have passion

Passion is an important ingredient in motivating employees. If you are not passionate about your business and its future then you cannot expect your employees to be. Connecting employees to your vision will help to build an effective team that is capable of producing good results. Employees buying into your vision will create enthusiasm about driving your vision forward and growing your business.

Be a great decision maker

Making the right decision is never easy having too much information can be as bad as not having sufficient information.

•Decisions should be made in a timely fashion not too hasty but not at a snails pace.

•Provide the necessary resources to support your decisions.

•Be committed to your decision but not too rigid.

A leader must be a team builder

A fantastic team can dramatically change your business for the better. Being able to choose the right people and build a great team is a must for any leader. Being able to delegate, recognise and reward good work are essential ingredients of creating an effective team.

In conclusion, it’s important not to forget about personal and professional development when running a small business. The right support and training can improve management and leadership skills and facilitate quality decisions and actions.

Often good leadership is what separates the successful business from a failed one.