In this club’s first two columns, I explained the importance of “why” and the necessity of “how.” Finally, it’s time to address what you do.
A common question I ask people I work with is “Why are you here?” The most common response is “To make money.” That is a what; fast-food businesses pay money. So why this interest? With more digging, you can find out the answer: to give back to the community, to be involved in something interesting and challenging, to be part of a family. While the core vision of any business is essential, it will not always align with the vision of those who work for you. Businesses always want employees who are a good fit, but I would challenge that notion. Find out why people are working with you and inspire them to take control of the situation based on that.
The closer to vision you are, the further away from control you should be. In a previous column, I quoted George Patton talking about telling people not how to do things but what to do, and I would say even better advice is to tell people why they’re doing it and be astonished at how they do what they do to accomplish it. For those looking for further inspiration, I encourage you to read L. David Marquet’s Turn the Ship Around!
Camosun Business Study Group is focused on students helping students to succeed both in and outside of the classroom. For news and events, follow them at facebook.com/cambussg.