Psychometric Testing
Ask an Expert: How Can I Lead My Team To Success in 2009?
The recruitment companies that thrive in 2009 won't succeed by chance - they'll be led by managers with a strong game plan, says business coach Sophie Robertson.
Robertson, the director of Younique Coaching, says it's tempting at this time of year to be thinking about Christmas and having a well-earned break from work, but whether you are a business owner or manager, "this is when your leadership, vision and strategy is much needed".
Many companies have been retrenching staff lately and tightening their belts on staff training, but Robertson questions whether this is the right strategy. "At a time when only the fittest will survive, surely staff need to be trained up and led by a fearless leader?"
"If you think you can adopt a 'wait and see' attitude before you decide what to do next year, you have become a passive, reactive supervisor rather than an active, innovative leader for these times."
She advises all leaders to:
- Take responsibility for your mindset. "You are the leader. You cannot decide on what happens with the economy, but you can choose your response to it. Recognise this; do not shirk and hide behind the current climate."
- Set aside time to formulate your game plan for next year. "If you haven't experienced similar times before, get a mentor or coach who can assist you. This is a serious task; not something to be done when you have time or as an afterthought."
- Identify any skills gaps in your team and more importantly in yourself. "Plug these gaps through training, coaching and mentoring. This is not the time to be scrimping in this area. Remember you and your team need to be the fittest!"
- Study your market/niche. "Know who the market leaders are. Know what they offer. Provide a superior offering to their clients."
- Shore up your clients. "Do not take your clients for granted. Look after them. They have paid your salary to date. Reward that with exceptional service. It's easier to get more business from an existing client than it is to get a new one. Once you lose a client, it is extremely difficult to develop a significant level of trust with them again."
- Shore up your team. "Involve them in your mutual quest. Do not project your fear of the economy onto them by making them fear for their job security. Instead, engage them. Lead them and inspire them."
- Network and be on the lookout for partners who can strengthen your existing offering. "The fittest are the ones who understand that by sharing, there will be more, not less."
- Talk it up. "If you are in control of your mindset and you have a game plan for your team to follow, you will exude confidence. When you are confident and not fearful, you will attract clients and candidates to you. People want to deal with successful people. The recruitment industry is worth billions. Even if half of it disappeared tomorrow, there is still plenty out there as long as you are equipped to deal with it and you have an appropriate game plan ready."
