Masonry Magazine August 2011 Page. 39
A fantastic career will be the result of dedication, commitment, time and money to find and attract great people. It takes more than placing a "want ad" or calling the hall.
To retain great people, companies must have a proactive and aggressive employee development program, rather than lip service and idle promises. This includes ongoing training and education, programs in team building, computers, supervision and leadership as well as technical skills. Also required are employee recognition systems, personal development programs and pay for performance. Future growth career ladders must be clear, tracked and updated regularly.
To develop great people requires new management and leadership styles that coach, inspire and encourage people to become the best they can be. This requires letting go and trusting people to take it to the next level. This only happens when managers realize that people are their only competitive advantage. Their output equals your input.
When will you start?
I am frustrated continually as I speak to owners and managers. People learn what to do, but don't do it. Why? Most business leaders are unwilling to try new ideas. They get used to the way it is. They get comfortable in their misery, stay put and go nowhere. Is your way working? Is the comfortable way working? Not!
My challenge to you is to change our industry now. Radical innovation, risk taking and real leadership are needed desperately by everyone. Only you can return our industry to favor with potential young workers. Now is the time for every building and construction company owner, leader, manager and supervisor to focus on the problems that have created this "labor shortage" by implementing immediate and long lasting solutions at every level. The only question is, "When will you start?"
George Hedley is author of "Get Your Business to Work!" and "The Business Success Blueprint For Contractors," available at his online bookstore. As an entrepreneur, popular speaker and business coach, he helps business owners build profitable companies. Email gh@hardhatpresentations.com to request your free copy of "Everything Contractors Know About Making A Profit!" or sign up for his free monthly e-newsletter. To hire George, attend a Profit-Builder Circle boot camp or be a part of an ongoing coaching and mentoring program, call 800-851-8553, or visit www.hardhatpresentations.com.
George Hedley, HARDHAT Presentations
3300 Irvine Ave. #135,
Newport Beach, CA 92660
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