Being self-employed doesn’t mean that I
don’t work with other people. In fact, I’ve had to create numerous teams
throughout my career to help me achieve my goals.
These days, my team gets together every morning on Skype because
we all live in different places. I couldn’t do what I do without them.
Building a killer team is crucial to your success as an
entrepreneur. Here’s how to do it.
1. Look for real talent. Hire people who are smarter and have more experience than you.
This may seem like a given, but I’ve found that it’s not. You may want to feel
like the smartest and most experienced member of your team, but your team will
be much better off if that's not the case.
2. Seek out different skill sets. When you’re building a small team, it’s incredibly important that
each member bring something different to the table. Make sure your team members
know that you aren’t simply looking for a “yes” person. You value their opinions
-- especially when they differ from yours. What are your weaknesses? Find
people who can fill them.
3. Avoid the temptation to micromanage. Everyone needs direction and management, but no one likes to be
micromanaged. Give your team a goal and let them achieve it. They might do
things differently than you would, but that’s perfectly fine -- maybe even
better.
4. Hire people that believe in your
product. You can’t teach an employee to care. If
they aren’t thrilled by the opportunity to work with you, take a pass. People
that truly believe in and support what you’re doing will work the hardest for
you.
5. Recognize that different people have
different goals. For some, it’s money. For others, it’s
recognition. Make sure you understand what your team member’s long-term goals
are and how you can help them achieve them. They will be incredibly loyal to
you if you do this. It shows you care!
6. Set the bar high. Everyone should be on the same page in regards to what you expect
and hope for. From the very onset, I make it clear that it’s important to me
that people own up to their mistakes immediately. If you acknowledge it, we’ll
move on, and it’s over. No harm no foul. Great communication is essential for a
killer team.
7. Create a safe space. We all make mistakes -- it’s better to be able to laugh at them
than cry! We all have insecurities. A killer team doesn’t prey on the
insecurities of another member, it works to lift them up. Take the time and
effort to create an open, welcoming environment. You need each other to fight
the good fight.
8. Never stop learning. Make educating your team a priority. When people feel like they’re
learning, they’re much more engaged with their work. How can you challenge your
team in a productive way?
9. Don’t forget to celebrate your
achievements as a group. There will be lots of small successes
along the way. Keep your team focused and excited by making the effort to
celebrate these, too. Enjoy the journey you’re on together.
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