Stairway to Seven

Keith M Jess, Chair Progressive Building Society.

My

1. VISION

Be clear about the vision for the organisation. Then ensure the whole team understand and buy into that vision. Paint a picture of what success will look like for the organisation and the team. Make sure all the team share in the resulting success.

2. OVERCOMMUNICATE Communicate, communicate, communicate with your people and your clients or customers. This will ensure your team and clients do not experience surprises and understand why decisions are taken – even if they may not agree with them. People appreciate knowing what is going on in the firm and, in contrast, they dislike being kept in the dark about developments.

3. LEADERSHIP

It is vital that the leaders in the organisation are role models for their team. This means doing the right thing and being seen to do the right thing. It is very important that leaders encourage and empower their people and always remember that no matter what the crisis is you must keep calm. Your team experience your true behaviours during difficult situations, rather than when all is going well.

4. CULTURE

The culture of an organisation is important to motivate people and works best if it is informed by the tone from the top. A constructive culture can make a huge difference to the wellbeing of employees and their loyalty to the firm. In today’s environment an organisation must have a purpose and it is important that employees support that purpose and see it a positive contribution to society.

5. RESPECT

Treat everyone with respect and take time for people. It is an old cliché but treat everyone with courtesy and respect on the way up and hope they will support you on the way down. I often try to think what is important to the person across the table – what motivates them and how can we achieve a collaborative solution to problems.

6. TRY HARDER

Be prepared to try harder than your competitors. This doesn’t necessarily mean working longer hours but thinking smarter and understanding your market better than competitors. This requires allowing yourself thinking time and taking advice.

7. COLLEAGUES

I have found having trusted colleagues who you can bounce ideas off and share problems is hugely helpful. They can act as a sounding board for your proposed actions and give you a reality check on progress. Always being prepared and open to receive feedback encourages colleagues to share honest views.