With 3 conversations this week alone on aligning owner-managers with their businesses, here are some thoughts for your consideration:
1. What really drives you?
For example, my own answer here is a better world. Based on the depth of experience I have in business, I am currently "improving the entrepreneur journey" one client at a time. I am working with (and ideally for) people that have similar values, such as morality, inclusivity and collaboration. If I had all the time and money in the world, I'd start a community-owned incubator/accelerator and possibly other ideas too.
My clients include leading a community-based company, another better world person (in their field of expertise) and thirdly to be a role model for others that have been in their position. So what really gets you going?
2. What's different about you?
Example: I worked 20 years for big companies through Unilever and PwC to being Programme Director reporting to £bn Chairmen. For the last 15 years I have brought these techniques to SMEs covering troubleshooting, transformations and exits, frequently consulting on high growth or being an Advisor to owner-managers. And I care about people first; it's so often one person that drives these things; I'm there for that person's happiness, leadership and success. Believe me, everyone has their talent and whilst probably easier for intelligent and emotionally mature 'network hub' individuals, leadership can be learned. What are your talents?
3. Where are you now?
Examples: I'm offering these services to SMEs, ideally those with aligned values, and if necessary prepared to change their approach to an inter-twined high growth and high efficiency model. My clients include 'I just happened to be there', 'I had just drifted into a different quality of service' and 'I'm transitioning from one period of life to another'. And you?
4. Where do you want to be?
Examples: most are happy to look at the next level up e.g. building a boutique consultancy, growing to £x million turnover. Given my historic programme work of over £10bn in 5 years, bring it on! If you have to say vision, now's your chance...
5. What are you doing to get there?
Examples: my own, well I have a lifetime plan broken down into maintained weekly targets. Others vary from no idea, to 'what's a plan?' through mood boards, business plans and other structured approaches. What's yours?
If you are not doing what you are passionate about (not the marketing terms, I mean feel enthused about, you get excited when you try and convince others), have you thought about changing?
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