In the world of construction, being a "champion" goes beyond just excelling at the technical aspects of the job. It's about cultivating a mindset of growth, supporting your team, and leading by example. In this insightful conversation, Mick Hawes, the founder of Builders Business Black Belt, shares his insights on what it takes to be a construction champion.
The Importance of Self-Care
Mick emphasizes that the key to being a successful construction champion lies in prioritizing your own personal development and well-being. He explains that many business owners and leaders in the industry often neglect their own needs, leading to burnout and a lack of energy to support their team effectively.
"If you really want to help others around you, you need to be a great example. You need to look after yourself."
Mick suggests that construction business owners should flip the traditional organizational structure on its head, placing themselves at the bottom of the hierarchy, supporting and nurturing their team members to reach their full potential.
Tailoring Your Management Approach
Mick introduces the concept of the "management matrix," which highlights the importance of treating each team member as an individual and adjusting your leadership style accordingly. He explains that not everyone responds well to the same approach, and it's crucial to understand where each team member is in terms of their experience, confidence, and decision-making abilities.
"We can't treat them the same. And so, we need to look at each person on our team as an individual, and we use this matrix where we basically start with the quadrant one is somebody who's quite new and inexperienced probably doesn't have a lot of confidence."
By adapting your management style to the needs of each team member, you can help them grow and thrive, ultimately leading to a more productive and engaged workforce.
Embracing Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Mick also emphasizes the importance of understanding your own strengths and weaknesses as a leader. He discusses the concept of "working genius" from Pat Lencioni's book, which identifies six different types of abilities, and how it's crucial to recognize where your own strengths lie and where you may need to rely on others.
"It's okay to be fallible when you're a leader and say I'm not very good at that. Can you help me with that and show people that you can ask for help, be vulnerable, all that sort of stuff."
By being transparent about your limitations and seeking support from team members who excel in areas where you may struggle, you can create a more collaborative and effective work environment.
Fostering a Fun and Productive Workplace
Mick emphasizes that construction work doesn't have to be all work and no play. He suggests implementing a "happiness at work index," where team members regularly share their level of satisfaction and contribute ideas to make the work environment more enjoyable.
"If we have the conversation and throw us a couple of crazy ideas out there each week and try them, there's a lot of value in having those conversations because people feel like I can I'm contributing."
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By prioritizing fun and engagement, construction champions can boost morale, increase productivity, and create a work culture that attracts and retains top talent.
In conclusion, being a construction champion is not just about technical expertise; it's about cultivating a holistic approach to leadership, personal growth, and team development. By focusing on self-care, tailoring your management style, embracing your strengths and weaknesses, and fostering a fun and productive workplace, construction business owners can unlock the true potential of their teams and become true champions in the industry.
Unlocking the Secrets of Construction Champions, Becoming a True Leader in the Construction Industry
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