As a business owner, you've likely given thought to the kind of culture you want to create around your business. As much as we'd like to rely on a cookie-cutter formula for business climate success, there is no "one right formula" that fits every company, every group of employees, every vision. The only consistent finding around culture is that it needs to grow and evolve as your business grows and evolves.
Evolution: The Key To Longevity and Success
Think about a childhood friend that you remain good friends with to this day. You wouldn't get together with your friend as an adult for a rousing game of kick the can, would you? As the two of you have grown and evolved, so has your relationship, and you probably find yourselves engaging in activities that have grown with you. Your business culture is like a friend who is growing and changing alongside you. You must make room for growth, maturity, and experiences that teach you how to continue your journey together.
Let Losses Happen
And just as you've given up some of the favorite activities you engaged in when the two of you are seven, there are systems, routines, and even employees that must fall by the wayside as your business culture continues to evolve. Embrace the changes, keep your higher vision in mind, and implement these strategies for success as you buckle up for an exciting ride!
Revisit your goals. As the leader of your organization, you should continually evaluate your vision and goals for the group. Consider whether your current culture supports these goals, and assess if and where changes must be made. If it appears that an aspect of your culture will hinder future business growth, change those policies, procedures, and people to ensure that steady progress continues.
Allow subcultures to form and grow. A natural extension of a larger organization is the evolution of subcultures. Your company will still adhere to the larger culture's norms, but it is normal for teams to adopt their own best practices and traditions that make them effective parts of your organization. A good leader recognizes that these subcultures need to be celebrated and supported as valued parts of your company. Celebrate successes, support them in their efforts, and provide assistance as necessary for continued growth and evolution.
Recognize emerging leaders. A company is not designed to live and die with its CEO; you need to recognize and train emerging leaders to carry on your work should you decide to move in another direction. People in your next level of leadership could benefit from some mentorship and training so you can, at some point, step down and take some much-needed time off. This ongoing training and mentorship implementation will ensure that your business, vision, and products will stand the test of time.
Pass down your vision and values. A CEO with forty employees or less has fewer communication challenges than one whose business has grown to a hundred or more. Being able to consistently and regularly communicate your vision and values to your employees not only creates buy-in, but it ensures that what you've worked so hard for will be carried on after you're no longer able to run it on your own.
Commit to your own evolution. Your business will grow as you do. Entrepreneurs who commit to lifelong learning and growth see many more successes than those who enter into business with rigid ideas about what will be possible. Open your mind, read books, surround yourself with mentors, attend courses. Do what it takes to become the best version of yourself, and your efforts will be reflected in your business culture and growth.
MaxGroup Business Solutions: Growing Right Along With You!
At MaxGroup Business Solutions, we are passionate students of growth and business success. Our professionals are committed to learning cutting-edge business strategies to bring them to you--our valued customer. Form a partnership with us and grow, letting your business culture and climate improve with every step! Visit www.maxgroupbusiness.com for more information.
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