Top Managers Know How To Listen

Entrepreneurs are able to take a new idea and translate it into a tangible business venture through hard work and determination. Successful business leaders are not only savvy on how best to maneuver into a new market, acquire investors and engage customers, but also optimize human capital and skills to complement enterprise strategies. Entrepreneurs must leverage the resources available to generate revenue and increase growth potential. Without proper management of employees, companies may be dragged down by weak practices or delay expansion projects due to a high turnover rate or low productivity levels.

Business builders are in charge of numerous aspects of business operations, including coaching managers on how to promote a positive company culture in the way they treat and oversee their staff. Managers must be equipped with the necessary training, skills and experiences to empower employees rather than stifle them. Particularly in service-oriented companies such as a financial advisory firm, it is imperative for managers to know how to listen to their workers to effectively teach to their skill set and nurture strengths for business growth.

Avoid Micromanaging

Business leaders must make sure they are creating an environment for staff to feel comfortable expressing ideas and trying something new, without fear of an adverse reaction from an overly involved supervisor. When a boss micromanages their team, staff will have little room or motivation to grow within the company. A stifled employee will likely not feel appreciated by their supervisor(s), dread coming to work each day and offer minimal productivity levels. These unsatisfied workers will operate as if constantly waiting to be reprimanded, corrected or rejected by a superior and may eventually leave the company.

A new business with a limited budget, however, should focus on hiring talented workers who show potential for growth within a company, building up experience and skills that align with enterprise goals. Just as investors will fund a business concept that shows promise for a lucrative future, managers should invest in employees who can help an enterprise surpass expectations with innovative ideas and determination. Becoming an overly involved manager who does not trust employees or allow them to spread their wings will only slow down a company

• About the Author

Norm Trainor

Norm Trainor - Founder, President and CEO of The Covenant Group

Norm Trainor leads his team in developing educational and coaching programs. He has penned several best-selling books, articles and other works with entrepreneurs and executives to show them how they can improve sales, become more valuable to their clients, boost productivity and, ultimately, achieve the success they desire.