Stop Being a Task Master and Empower Your Team for Real Growth
When you're the only one driving every action and assigning every task, you're not leading... you’re micromanaging. And that keeps you stuck in the weeds, unable to scale or step away from the tools.
Here’s how to shift from managing tasks to building a self-sufficient, empowered team and why it matters.
The Task Master vs. Task Rabbit Dynamic
Brad explains that many business owners fall into the trap of assigning tasks to their employees without providing a clear structure or outcome. This creates a cycle where employees become "task rabbits," waiting for the next assignment instead of taking ownership of their responsibilities. For example, if you tell an employee to demo cabinets and then wait for them to return for the next task, you are merely managing tasks rather than leading a team.
This dynamic can lead to frustration and inefficiency. Employees may feel lost without clear direction, and you may find yourself overwhelmed with the constant need to delegate tasks. The solution lies in shifting from a task master mentality to one that empowers your team.
Empowering Your Team
To break free from the task master mentality, Brad emphasizes the importance of assigning outcomes and responsibilities rather than just tasks. Here are some key points to consider:
Define Outcomes: Clearly communicate the expected outcomes for each project. Instead of saying, "Go demo the cabinets," you might say, "I expect the cabinets to be removed and the area cleaned by the end of the day." This gives your team a clear goal to work towards.
Assign Responsibilities: Identify specific responsibilities for each team member based on their skills and experience. For instance, a senior carpenter might be responsible for setting cabinets, while a junior carpenter manages demolition. This not only clarifies roles but also fosters accountability.
Encourage Ownership: Allow your team to take ownership of their responsibilities. If a team member is responsible for charging radios, let them experience the consequences if they forget. This builds accountability and encourages them to take their role seriously.
Action Steps to Implement
To start transforming your business from a task master environment to one that empowers your team, consider the following action steps:
Create a Responsibility Chart: List all the tasks involved in your projects and assign specific responsibilities to each team member. This chart should be visible to everyone and updated regularly. It will serve as a reference point for your team and help them understand their roles better.
Hold Regular Check-Ins: Schedule weekly or bi-weekly meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and any adjustments needed in responsibilities. This will not only keep everyone on the same page but also provide an opportunity for team members to voice their concerns and suggestions.
Provide Training and Resources: Invest in training for your team to ensure they have the skills needed to fulfill their responsibilities. This could include workshops, online courses, or mentorship programs. The more equipped your team is, the more confident they will feel in taking ownership of their tasks.
By shifting your mindset from being a task master to empowering your team, you can create a more efficient and motivated workforce. This not only enhances productivity but also allows you to step back and focus on growing your business.
Resources
Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint
