Passion is the starting point for success.
I am given opportunities to share this passion with the people I work with on a daily basis.I love to go to work every day and speak with customers to gain an understanding of what they need. It allows me to offer them new ideas, products and solutions for improved product performance. I love speaking with employees so I can understand their life goals and assist them in their growth.
I also enjoy meeting with vendors and developing relationships so I can learn about their products, as well as the value their products add to the industry. I recognize the importance of communicating a clear company vision, strategy and course of action.
Defining these objectives can provide a clear understanding of the goals and direction of your company.
Ask questions
Asking vital questions that lead to further transformation encourages a trend of consistent development.
For example, as an entrepreneur and business owner, I am always asking: Where are we now? What’s next for the company in three to five years? What does our organization look like? Do we have the right talent, skill sets and development programs for our people to maintain growth while taking the company to the next level?
Expand your network
Value must be placed on networking opportunities and the potential to expand them beyond a customer base.
Resources I rely on in my network are bankers, suppliers, real estate and insurance brokers, business consultants, trade associations, my family and my employees. I personally learn about market conditions from my extended network and I am always seeking to expand this network, even if it is outside of the industry.
This helps to establish a well-rounded base of knowledge.
In my experience, word of mouth can generate business opportunities, and vendors may be encouraged to refer more business. It is important to interact with vendors beyond a purchase order.
Help them to understand your needs — encourage them to grow with you. Become a valuable customer by demonstrating loyalty and respect throughout the relationship.
It’s all about people
Business leaders often say a good business is all about product, process and people.
But, I think it is all about people, people and people. With the right people, you can deliver the right product through the right process. To achieve this, it requires a strong leader who can help their team thrive.
In developing Diamond Wipes, I realized through trial and error that I do not know everything and I cannot do everything on my own. The key is to have a support team of individuals with diverse strengths, especially individuals with skill sets that I may not possess.
This is why it is critical that I meet with key managers and employees at every level on a consistent basis. It allows me to communicate goals, discuss opportunities and provide the support they need to succeed.
It’s crucial to have the correct people in the appropriate positions where they can find meaning in their work.
This is how they will progress and succeed in the overall success of the company. ●
