Being the boss can be overwhelming at times. The Leadership Secrets of Santa Claus, is a timely reminder of great management practices, Here are some excerpts from The Walk and Talk Company.
The sign in Santa’s workshop says “So Many Toys, So Little Time”. Here are some of his strategies:
- Make the most of time. Prioritize tasks ,start and end meetings promptly, teach time management skills to key employees.
- Make the most of money. Think pennies as well as dollars-a few cents here and there adds up to dollars. Use email to save on postage and long distance charges. Shop for the best price on materials, supplies and services, not just products.
- Make the most of employee talent and expertise.
- Involve the people with knowledge in the decisions.
- Match jobs with worker skills and interests.
- Improve employee expertise through additional training.
- Encourage employees to share their knowledge with others.
- Consider brainstorming sessions to encourage new ideas.
- When possible, consider cross-training and even “job swap” to enable employees to see how other job positions operate and their obstacles to deal with.
- Recognize the importance of recognition and rewards for staff. (Even Santa’s elves and reindeers need this).
Finally, remember Santa’s code for himself and upper management:
- Follow all rules and procedures
- Treat everyone with dignity and respect
- Always tell the truth
- Never break a promise or commitment
- Continually give the best effort
- Consistently take a stand for what is right
Joe Groden, JG Consulting spreads his management tips in a monthly newsletter available through his website.
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