Leading by example basically means role modeling expected behaviors, in everything you do. It means being in an ‘on stage’ frame of mind at all times.
Successful business owners and managers are always aware of the fact that their appearance, demeanor, behavior and actions are seen and carefully scrutinized by team members.
Make your priorities clear:
As maximizing revenue and profits are what a business owner strives for, it makes sense that the one of the Golden Rules for leading by example is to hold these things in the top priority position – during every conversation, in every meeting – the talk is sales first, probably expenses second.
And then whatever else is next in priority at that particular time. What is not subject to change is the priority position of sales (or revenue).
It should not be necessary to point out the need for maximizing revenue and minimizing expenses in order to be profitable.
But you would be surprised at the number of people who see things differently. They are wrong.
Without profitability, a company cannot continue to serve customers, cannot continue to employee people; simply cannot continue to exist.
So, whenever you hear people talking about other things that are really important to the business, you can certainly agree that there are, indeed, many other things important to the business, as long as that business exists.
And we all know what is necessary to ensure the business exists – maximizing revenue and profits.
A business owner must demonstrate an understanding of this at every turn. That is how your employees are going to learn what is most important.
Never complain:
Business owners aren’t usually heard complaining because negative attitudes would defeat the very purpose of leading by example.
Sure, they may be unhappy or dismayed about something or other…that’s almost a given. But that’s not the same as complaining as if the issues are someone else’s to deal with. The buck has to stop with the business owner.
Demonstrate a strong work ethic:
Most successful business owners take pride in their strong work ethic. They will work harder than most and they will do many things that others will not.
They’ll do innovative things; tough things and they’ll do it all in a day’s work.
They believe in working very hard, as well as working smart and their dedication and commitment to their company shines through.
They are punctual and reliable and they expect the same from everyone around them.
Leading by example is critical to the business owner’s success.