Many entrepreneurs find that in the early startup stage of their companies employees are easily inspired. Proximity to the founders of the organization puts the personnel in touch with the vision, goals, and work ethics that provided the initial impetus to begin. However, a few years in, as your business scales up, you need to reassess the methods you use to motivate your staff. Instead of directing and delegating your employees, you’ll motivate them better if you coach them, collaborate with them, and give them opportunities for individual empowerment. Here are some strategies that can help you accomplish this.
Listen to Employees
The key to scaling up your leadership with your startup is attentive listening. This causes you to transition from directing your employees to coaching them. Meet their eyes, give them your undivided attention, ask questions, let them take their time answering, and listen thoughtfully.
Schedule One-on-One Meetings
Some interaction with personnel can take place during casual encounters, but it is also important to schedule one-on-one get-togethers during which you can listen to employee feedback. Make these meetings integral to your startup culture. As employees look forward to them as a part of their regular routines, they will increasingly come up with ideas to benefit the business.
Empower Individuals
The convergence of personal and business goals will inspire your employees and strengthen loyalty to your company. Besides doing their jobs, employees desire to develop as individuals. If you can align the initiatives of your business with the personal goals of your staff, it’s a win-win situation.
Encourage Peer-to-Peer Communication
Employee resource groups allow personnel to form networks based on common affinities. Employees of your startup can get together and discuss projects, innovations, and improvements in an inclusive environment. Studies show that encouraging groups such as these helps with employee engagement and retention.
For more advice on scaling your leadership with your startup, get in touch with Painted Horse Financial.
