When I started writing EntreLeadership: 20 Years of Practical Business Wisdom from the Trenches, I asked myself the question, “What are the fundamental principles that caused my company to win?”
In the process, I came up with six concepts that helped transform my business from a card table in the living room to a nationally recognized brand that has helped change the lives of millions of people.
Regardless of the size or age of your organization, these concepts will work for you, too.
Team
You should be consumed with the needs of your team. Treat your team like family, and they will act like family. You’ll be paid back several times over with faithfulness, dependability and profits.
People
Everyone around you is unique and important. Your customers, coworkers, community, vendors and, yes, even your competition all have hopes and dreams. Each and every one of them are human beings, not units of production. And they all deserve to be treated with dignity, respect and a caring heart.
Excellence
Having the right people in the proper roles allows you to do your best work. Take plenty of time when filling positions. Be diligent, and ask for a blessing when it comes to bringing in new people.
We take the hiring process very seriously at my company. My leaders and I look at the whole person — family and all. Remember, every organization is only two or three bad hires away from a crash. Don’t rush things when it comes to adding people to your team.
Slow and steady
We live in a fast and furious, got-to-have-it-now world. Slow down. Take a breath. Believe me, there’s no such thing as an overnight success. Make long-term plans and short-term course corrections as you go.
Financial principles
Manage your money and other resources God’s ways. In other words, operate on a strict budget and avoid debt. The Bible says, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” Stop being a slave, and start prospering!
A higher calling
If you play for something bigger than yourself, you’ll play much harder and smarter. The same holds true for your team. You’ll be surprised how passionate they become when there’s a sense of calling. Successful leaders never focus strictly on the what. The why is just as important.
By sticking to these simple but powerful concepts, you can take your company and your team to incredible heights. Everyone will be a winner when you concentrate on what matters most!
