The Playbook: Leadership

What the TOP 10% looks like!

8 Critical Components that the best have figured out...

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, driving innovation and creating employment opportunities. Within this dynamic sector, a select few rise to the top, exhibiting exceptional leadership that sets them apart from the rest. In this blog, we will explore what the top 10% of small businesses look like in terms of leadership, focusing on the concept of "absolute accountability." These businesses embrace a culture of responsibility, transparency, and unwavering commitment to their teams and stakeholders. Let's delve into the key characteristics that define these exceptional leaders.

• Visionary Leadership:

At the core of the top 10% of small businesses is a visionary leader who sets a clear direction for the company. These leaders possess a compelling vision and effectively communicate it to their team. They inspire and motivate others, fostering a shared sense of purpose and commitment. By establishing a compelling vision, they align the efforts of their team toward common goals, driving success and growth.

• Transparent Communication:

Leaders in the top 10% of small businesses prioritize open and transparent communication. They recognize the power of effective communication in building trust, fostering collaboration, and driving productivity. Transparent leaders provide regular updates on company performance, share relevant information, and actively seek feedback from their team members. This culture of openness enables employees to feel valued, engaged, and motivated to contribute their best.

• Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity:

In the realm of absolute accountability, failure is seen as a stepping stone to growth and improvement. Top small business leaders understand that mistakes happen, and they encourage their team to take risks and learn from failures. Rather than assigning blame, they focus on understanding what went wrong and how to prevent similar issues in the future. This approach fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

• Empowering and Developing Others:

Exceptional leaders understand that their success is directly tied to the growth and development of their team members. They empower their employees by providing autonomy and trusting them with responsibilities. These leaders invest in training and development programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of their employees, enabling them to reach their full potential. By creating a culture of growth and empowerment, they build a team that is motivated, engaged, and committed to the company's success.

• Leading by Example:

The top 10% of small business leaders embody the values and behaviors they expect from their team. They lead by example, demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. These leaders are not afraid to roll up their sleeves and get involved in the day-to-day operations of the business. Their actions inspire their team members to give their best and maintain high standards of performance.

• Creating a Culture of Accountability:

Absolute accountability lies at the heart of top small businesses. These leaders foster a culture of accountability where everyone takes ownership of their actions and outcomes. They establish clear expectations, set performance metrics, and hold individuals accountable for their results. By creating a culture of responsibility, they ensure that each team member understands their role and actively contributes to the company's success.

• Building Strong Relationships:

Leaders in the top 10% of small businesses prioritize building strong relationships with their employees, customers, and stakeholders. They invest time and effort in understanding the needs and aspirations of their team members, fostering a sense of belonging and loyalty. They also cultivate strong relationships with customers, providing exceptional service and building long-term partnerships. These leaders recognize that strong relationships are the foundation of success and growth.

• Adapting to Change:

In a rapidly evolving business landscape, top small business leaders are agile and adaptable. They embrace change and proactively seek opportunities for innovation and improvement. These leaders encourage their team members to embrace change, fostering a culture of flexibility and resilience. By innovating and adapting they stay ahead of the game and the competition.

Where do you fall on this spectrum?  What is your organization like?  What needs to change?  What are you already doing well? 

You are the leader, it’s on you!