Lessons from a Business Coach

Barbara Anderson put out a newsletter a few years ago in which she outlined tips for managing and keeping staff. When I read through the list, I thought these principles apply to people in any profession, including teachers, not just business people. They can also apply to how we relate to children, empowering them so they feel good about themselves. An extract from Barbara’s newsletter follows –

• Acknowledgement – catch people doing things right – and let them know. Have appropriate rewards system.
• Giving feedback on areas for improvement – people do want to know how they are doing.
• Ask them – what they think; how things could be better (especially generation Y).
• Be Interested in your people – in their lives outside work.
• Show Respect.
• Flexibility – e.g. flexible working hours.
• Train and develop your people ongoingly.
• Don’t micro-manage – trust your people to do a great job.
• Be available – open door policy as appropriate.
• Treat your customers/clients as guests to your business (especially in hospitality).
• Salary and Performance Reviews – keep up to date.
• Triple bottom line – net profit; caring for people, impact on society.
• Have Fun!

Barbara’s newsletter goes on to focussing on your strengths. Here’s what she says, in part:

‘Individual strengths allow us to overcome personal hurdles, thrive in relationships and gain meaning from our work and play. When using the language of positive psychology people are able to think of themselves in terms of their strengths rather than weaknesses, concentrate on what they have rather than what they do not have and focus on their abilities instead of inabilities. Talking about strengths creates opportunities for people to revel in what is right with them, not dwell on what is wrong with them.

Conversations about strengths can move people forward, encourage the polishing of good memories and provide hope for those who may be stuck or confused about where they are in life. To get the most out of exploring strengths it is beneficial for people to be able to share their strengths with someone else. Sharing reminds and reaffirms understanding of strengths. It is very rare that people are given an opportunity to talk about themselves in such a positive way.’

Just imagine if the staff were encouraged to discuss their strengths and use those for the good of the school community? And just imagine if this atmosphere then related to empowering the children through the same methods? I have seen this. It can happen. If this is the atmosphere in your school or workplace, give yourself a pat on the back and be grateful.

Thank you to Barbara Anderson for her newsletter and relevant tips.

(Shire Coaching & Training Newsletter  http://www.shirecoachingtraining.com.au)