As a leader in the lawn care, landscaping, or tree care industry, you understand the significance of starting the new year on the right foot. Over the course of my career, I've developed a New Year's "Checklist" that helps me focus and prepare for the year ahead. This checklist ensures that I'm ready to tackle challenges and position myself for success. If you're looking to make 2024 a great year for your business, consider these ten essential steps.
1. Reflect before you leap
Before you dive headfirst into the new year, take a moment to reflect on the year that just passed. Celebrate your victories and learn from your setbacks. Engage in this reflection process with your team, preferably early in the year. This practice helps everyone gain clarity and perspective before moving forward.
2. Study your business plan
Review your business plan meticulously. You don't need to memorize every detail, but absorbing the overarching goals and strategies for the year can put you ahead of the game. Understanding the scope of what you aim to achieve will provide clarity and motivation.
3. Read your leadership "fine print"
Every leader possesses strengths that, when overplayed, can become weaknesses. Recognize your leadership "fine print" – those traits that need careful handling. For instance, a natural inclination to be a "hard charger" can backfire if it leads to impatience and steamrolling over others. Early awareness of your "fine print" can help you lead more effectively.
4. Assemble the right team
Evaluate your team's strengths and weaknesses and address a few critical questions:
- Are all team members committed to the new year and your plan?
- Are there unresolved issues from the previous year that require attention?
- Do you need to make personnel changes before things get too busy?
Answering these questions and taking necessary corrective actions will set your team up for success.
5. Keep raising the bar
While not every metric can be continuously elevated, aim to raise one or two key performance indicators higher than the previous year. Achieving a "best-ever" performance followed by an even higher goal can be incredibly motivating for your team.
6. Set SMART goals
Ensure that your goals pass the SMART test:
- Specific: Clearly define what's expected, why it's important, and who is responsible.
- Measurable: Establish methods to measure progress and stay on track.
- Achievable: Set realistic and attainable goals.
- Relevant: Ensure that goals align with your broader objectives.
- Time-Based: Set specific deadlines for goal completion.
If a goal doesn't meet these criteria, revisit and refine it.
7. Empower through delegation
Delegate responsibilities and authority to your team regularly. Delegating empowers individuals, promotes fulfillment, and increases productivity. For you, it frees up time to focus on strategic aspects of your business.
8. Tune in and listen
Find moments to truly listen without distractions. Create a "listening environment" by stepping away from multitasking and taking in your surroundings. This practice enhances your ability to engage with your team effectively.
9. Provide timely feedback
Offer feedback to your team members, especially early in the year. Timely course corrections are easier when you catch deviations early. Open and honest communication is key to alignment.
10. Embrace patience, tolerance, and engagement
In the face of challenges and conflicts, practice patience, tolerance, and engagement. Stay centered, calm, open-minded, receptive, and understanding. These qualities are essential, especially when things don't go as planned.
By following this leadership roadmap, you'll be better prepared to navigate the unique demands of the lawn care, landscaping, or tree care industry in 2024. Start the year with intention, and watch your business thrive.
Editor's Note: This article was written by Fred Haskett of TrueWinds Consulting.
