5 Leadership Strategies Every Owner-Manager Should Adopt to Build a High-Performing Team

As an owner-manager, you know that the success of your business relies heavily on the people who work for you. But let’s face it: building a high-performing team is easier said than done. You might have a clear vision of where you want your business to go, but getting your team to perform at their best to help you get there can be a challenge. Here are five practical leadership strategies that can help you unlock your team's full potential and drive your business to greater heights.

1. Set Clear Expectations and Communicate Them Regularly

One of the most common reasons teams underperform is that they aren’t clear on what’s expected of them. It’s easy to assume that your employees know what you want, but unless you spell it out, misunderstandings can happen.

How to do it:

• Start by clearly defining your business goals and breaking them down into specific tasks for each team member.

• Make sure each person knows exactly what success looks like in their role. This could be a sales target, a customer satisfaction score, or completing projects on time and within budget.

• Regularly check in with your team to reinforce these expectations. This could be through weekly team meetings or one-on-one catch-ups.

Action Step:
This week, have a sit-down with each of your key team members and go over their main responsibilities. Ask them to repeat back to you what they think is expected of them. If there are any gaps, fill them in right away.

2. Empower Your Team to Make Decisions

Micromanaging can kill your team's motivation and creativity. Your employees need to feel trusted to make decisions in their areas of responsibility. When you empower them to take charge, they’re more likely to take ownership of their work and go the extra mile.

How to do it:

• Delegate tasks with clear guidelines but allow your team the freedom to decide how they accomplish these tasks.

• Encourage them to come up with solutions rather than always coming to you with problems.

• Provide support when needed but avoid stepping in unless it’s absolutely necessary.

Action Step:
Identify one decision you normally make that you can delegate to a team member. Brief them on what needs to be done and let them handle it. Trust them to come to you if they need guidance.

3. Invest in Your Team’s Development

Your business is only as strong as the people in it. If you want a high-performing team, you need to invest in their growth. This doesn’t mean just sending them on expensive courses. Often, the best development comes from on-the-job learning and mentorship.

How to do it:

• Offer opportunities for team members to take on new challenges that will stretch their abilities.

• Pair less experienced employees with more seasoned team members for mentorship.

• Regularly discuss each employee's career goals and how they can achieve them within your business.

Action Step:
This month, set aside time to talk to each of your employees about their career aspirations. Find one small way you can help them grow—whether it's giving them a new responsibility or arranging a training session.

4. Recognize and Reward Effort and Achievement

People like to feel appreciated, and a little recognition can go a long way in motivating your team. When you acknowledge hard work and celebrate successes, it reinforces positive behaviour and encourages your employees to keep up the good work.

How to do it:

• Give specific and timely praise when someone does a good job. Instead of just saying, "Good work," tell them exactly what they did well and how it contributed to the business.

• Celebrate team achievements, whether it’s hitting a sales target or completing a big project. This could be as simple as a shout-out in a meeting or a team lunch.

• Consider implementing a rewards program, where employees earn perks or bonuses for meeting certain goals.

Action Step:
Think of one recent achievement by a team member that you haven’t acknowledged yet. Make a point of recognizing their effort today, either publicly in a meeting or privately.

5. Lead by Example

Your team is watching you more closely than you might realize. The way you act sets the tone for the entire business. If you’re committed, hardworking, and ethical, your team is more likely to follow suit. But if you cut corners or show a lack of enthusiasm, don’t be surprised if your team does the same.

How to do it:

• Demonstrate the behaviour you want to see in your team, whether that’s punctuality, attention to detail, or a positive attitude.

• Be transparent and honest with your employees. If there’s bad news, don’t sugarcoat it—communicate openly and respectfully.

• Show your team that you’re not afraid to roll up your sleeves and get involved when necessary.

Action Step:
Pick one area where you can improve as a leader—whether it’s your communication style, time management, or how you handle stress. Focus on making that change this week and observe how your team responds.

By implementing these five strategies, you’ll be well on your way to building a high-performing team that not only meets but exceeds your business goals. Remember, leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about guiding your team to find the best solutions together. Start with these practical steps, and you’ll see the difference in your team's performance—and your business’s bottom line.

Next Steps:

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