Naperville Business Lawyer Talks About Empowering Your Employees to Help the Company
While no two people are exactly the same, there is a characteristic that is commonly shared by those who start and own businesses. Business owners are generally motivated individuals who are willing to invest time, money, and energy into a concept or a commercial venture. Along with this willingness often comes a general desire to be in control of the situation.
As a business owner myself, as well as a business law attorney, I have come to understand that the level of control that business owners often desire is not usually sustainable over the long run. It is important for owners to look for ways to engage their staff and empower their employees so that the success of the business is truly a team objective in which each employee is invested personally.
Challenge Your Staff and Give Opportunities
Depending on the type of business you own, the opportunities for your staff to show initiative may vary, but there is nearly always room for your team to grow personally and professionally. Your employees were probably each hired to address a particular need that your company had, but they might have talents and abilities that could be utilized better in other roles. The recent college graduate that you originally hired as a receptionist, for example, might have the personality and communication skills to grow into a leader in your sales department. Look for ways to give her a chance to try, and you might improve your bottom line as a result.
If you do not know what opportunities to give your staff, meet with your team to learn what motivates them. Based on the feedback you receive, you can take steps to help your employees grow.
Allow Your Team to Fail in Some Situations
If your employees found it easy to take risks, most of them would probably not still be working for someone else. They would likely be entrepreneurs looking for their own path to success. Keeping this in mind, realize that most of your team might be hesitant to try new things—especially their own ideas—out of fear of the possible repercussions of failure. Instead of allowing the fear to dominate, encourage original ideas within reason.
When a team member approaches you with an idea for a new way of doing a part of his or her job, give him or her the chance to try. If the idea does not work, avoid being personally critical. Talk with your employee about where and how the idea missed the mark and how to improve on it going forward. Do not punish employees who are trying to make improvements, and failure in a controlled environment can be a great teacher.
A DuPage County Business Lawyer Can Help
For over 30 years, Attorney Denice Gierach and her team have been helping business owners in Northern Illinois improve the communication and relationships with their employees. To get the guidance you need with your business, contact one of our experienced Naperville business law attorneys. Call the Gierach Law Firm at 630-756-1160 for an appointment.
Sources:
Small Business Administration
Forbes
Inc.com
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Please note: These blogs have been created over a period of time and laws and information can change. For the most current information on a topic you are interested in please seek proper legal counsel.