It’s not easy being a small business owner. USA Today reported last year that only 20% of small businesses survive 18 months. That means a whopping 80% never even make it to the second year. While those statistics can be discouraging, there are measured steps you can take that set you up for a higher rate of success. One example of those steps is small business leadership training. With a well-trained captain at the helm of the ship, you’ll be more likely to take on the challenges that running a business can throw at you with finesse and flexibility.
Anticipate the Needs
One of the first things that you’ll learn during small business leadership training is how to set yourself up for success. Every business, no matter the size, has bumps, conflicts, and hurdles that they have to overcome. Doing so with an optimistic attitude can be the key to failing forward and being able to pick yourself up after you experience a setback. Being a good leader means that you have to anticipate the needs of your business before you actually need them. Participating in leadership training can help you become more proactive.
Confidence in Managing
You’ll also gain confidence in managing people. When you’re dealing with the stress of running a small business, it can be difficult to handle all of the responsibilities that come with managing people. Every person that you hire has a life and a story outside of the workplace, so maintaining some level of flexibility is necessary. At the same time, though, you’ll have to assure that your employees know that you mean business and don’t feel that they can take advantage of your empathy. Small business leadership training will help you strike the critical balance necessary to keep employees efficient, productive, and satisfied with their work.
Inspired to Lead
Perhaps most importantly, you’ll be inspired to lead by example. A great leader takes action, participates in the process, and is willing to admit when they are wrong. It’s not enough to tell others what to do. As a small business owner, you’ll need to get your hands dirty and inspire those around you to do the same. Otherwise, you’ll isolate yourself from your workforce, creating an unhealthy “us and them” relationship between management and staff.
It’s no easy feat running a small business. It requires dedication to your craft and constant seeking of opportunities to grow as an individual and as a leader. Keye Strategies can point you in the right direction.
Read more about how we’ve helped others find their stride as small business owners and give us a call to start walking your own path to success.
