Lead the way

Becoming a successful franchisee will require good leadership and managerial skills. Jo Owen, author of How to Lead, lists the skills all business leaders must master

Motivating others is one of the most important things as a team leader. “Bosses think they are good at motivating  but team members may disagree,’ he says.

“The most important thing you can do to motivate your team is show that you care for them and their careers. Working for a boss who does not care is hell.” 

Setting a direction is important too. “Be clear about where you are going and how you will get there. Make sure your vision is motivational by showing how each person has a crucial role to play in helping you get there. Make it personal,” Jo adds. 

Being able to delegate is also crucial and remembering that leadership is a team sport. 

“Stretch and grow your team by delegating challenging tasks, this will also show that you trust them. Be demanding about the goals but fexible about the means. Never delegate the blame or your responsibility, remember you are always responsible”, advises Jo. 

“Remember that crises are inevitable, so make the most of them”, he goes on to say. ‘Use them to show your potential. Drive to action, be positive and take the lead. 

Don’t hide, don’t play the blame game and remember that analysis is not a substitute for action.”

Making decisions and communicating well are two key factors to good management Jo says.

“Followers hate uncertainty and doubt. Trust your judgement, indecision and changing your mind is the sign of a weak leader. There is no such thing as a good idea, which did not happen. Be decisive and make it happen.

“Also communicate well. Good leaders have two ears and one mouth and they use them in that proportion. Listen more than you talk. To persuade someone you must frst understand them, not judge them”, Jo says. 

Building the right team is also crucial. “Good leaders have good teams who balance your skills and approach. Don’t hire clones of yourself or weaklings, hire strong people and remember that most people are hired for their technical skills and fred for their lack of values or people skills.

“Manage performance within your team by setting the right expectations and sticking with them. Be consistent, provide support, give constructive feedback early and never accept excuses”, Jo advises.

The author goes on to suggest that fghting a battle is only worth it if you know you’ll win and that the prize is worth fghting for. 

He says: “Getting the right budget, the right assignment and the right team are must win battles for all leaders.”

“Build on your strengths too”, Jo adds. “No leader gets ticks in all the boxes. Build a team, which deals with your weaknesses and focus on what you are good at. 

“Remember Olympic weightlifters do not win by focusing on their weakness in synchronised swimming. And we only excel at what we enjoy, so focus on what you are good at and make the most of it.”

Jo Owen
Jo Owen is the author of How to  Lead, available to purchase at all good book shops

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