We're Still Here

People have many reasons to embrace a new year. It provides an opportunity to correct mistakes of the previous year. It provides a renewed optimism for better opportunities. It offers a chance to reflect on life and how to make it fruitful. If you are reading this post, then you have a purpose and assignment unfinished. It is time to go to work.

What can I do? A common questions asked by many at the start of a new year. There is much you can do. You do not need a position of authority to make a difference. You can bring change no matter where you are. Here are five things you can do to make your company stronger in 2025.

1. Build a high-performing culture. Let me give a shout out to the Detroit Lions, the darlings of the NFL. Dan Campbell has changed the culture of the team from mediocre to excellent. They win with little and believe they should. You don't need superstars to build a winning culture. You need people who are motivated in their assignment and believe they make an impact. Motivate people by entrusting them with significant work, show belief in their ability to get the job done, and don't give up on them when they fall short of the goal.

2. Identify and groom your successors. Some of you have decided to move on. You are interviewing, making connections, and planning your next. What will happen when you are gone? Who will take over? Who will lead the vision and mission? If you are ready to leave, make sure you do not leave the cupboards bare. Prepare your successor to move into leadership with confidence. It shows a lack of character to leave an organization without putting someone in place to carry on the work.

3. Put your aces in their places. Make sure the right people are in the right assignment. Great talent is hard to find, but use who you have to get the job done. Evaluate their gifts, talents, and abilities and put them in the best position to succeed. Many companies have the wrong people in assignments. This causes frustration and people will eventually leave to find the right fit for their skillsets. Don't lose good talent by undervaluing their ability and under utilizing their strengths.

4. Let people know what is going on. During my professional career with General Motors, I learned the importance of communicating regularly with my team. Each Monday, I would send out a audio message to my department letting them know events and changes in the organization. I met with my staff monthly to keep my hand on the pulse of the department. Communication is essential for a well-managed organization. Many businesses will never thrive until the levels of communication improve.

5. Keep your eyes on the prize. Remind your team regularly of the mission and vision of the organization. Communicate the mission to your team and keep it before them. I sit on the board of a non-profit that recites the mission and vision at every board meeting. It keeps us focused on the big picture and keeps us focused on our strategic plan. Your organization will grow immeasurably when people know what they are building and the work they commit themselves to serve.

Let these leadership points guide your organization I assure you will grow a successful, thriving company this year.