Five Suggestions for a Successful Year

I like to start each day with a clean slate. I got this practice from a former boss who believed coming into the office each morning with a clean desk set the stage to begin the day with enthusiasm and a fresh look. I definitely feel that way about the new year. It’s a new opportunity to review methodologies, objectives, processes, mission, human resource practices, why we keep the extra toner by the kitchen instead of next to the printer. So to start the year off right here are five suggestions for a successful year:

1. Plan what is needed to execute new ideas or fix current processes. Without an overarching roadmap for what you want to accomplish, nothing else can get done.
   


2. Evaluate your team for skills or needed training. Determine what capabilities your staff will need to develop in order maximize your chances of reaching your goals. Now is the time to research options such as additional training or outside assistance to fill those gaps.
   


3. Clearly explain to your team what is expected of them. Many departments are still smaller than in past years. Make sure each person understands his or her new roles and responsibilities to reduce the risk of falling through the cracks.
   


4. Establish a mechanism to provide an early warning for failure. Sometimes it really is best to quit while ahead.
   


5. Determine the consequences of failure. Are the consequences big enough for everyone to want to do their best but small enough that employees won’t leave the team rather than fail? If you want your team to follow you through fire, they need to know they won’t get burned…too badly.
   

What are you waiting for? Let’s get to work!

Authored by Jeanine Maddox