Building a team can be a pretty daunting challenge, but I’d say the most important question to ask before you start is: how can I build the RIGHT team? Creating a startup and growing a business is no easy feat, so it will require wearing many different hats. There is no such thing as a solo entrepreneur! If there’s anything I’ve learned in entrepreneurship, it’s that trying to take on everything yourself will hurt your company (especially in the long-term)! So it’s super important to build the right team around you, even if it takes longer for your business to get off the ground and running.
Here are some tips when it comes to building out your dream team.
Find people who believe in your vision.
As the CEO of your business, you lead with your vision, business ideas, and talent, so you must be selective and strategic about your team. If you don’t know what your vision is yet, forget trying to build a team; because then, it will be like pulling a cart up a tree, which doesn’t make any sense. As the leader, you must know what you want before others can follow. Okay, once you know what you want, find those who believe in your idea, but not just your idea! The ones who end up being the most loyal and passionate are the ones who believe in you! If those you hire do not believe in the idea strongly, they will not have a vested interest, and that does not bring additional value to your company in the long-run.
Fill in the gaps.
If you want to build a great team, you have to know your strengths and weaknesses. Put your ego aside, and make a list if you have to. Do what you’re great at, and find competent people to handle the rest – it’s as simple as that. Look for professionals who not only have industry experience and credentials, but those can make decisions on your behalf and be an ambassador for you and your business. Find people who will be passionate about the world they will enter in, and not just a stepping stone to something else. You also want a diverse group because that will spark creativity and balance. Remember, you are nothing without a good team!
Keep it professional.
It’s important to avoid mixing friendships and business. I think it’s best to surround yourself with people you enjoy and whose opinions and tastes you respect. That way, you can create an environment that is not only positive, but you can empower those who work with you! Finally, be clear about your expectations upfront, and you’ll be sure to set off on the right foot.
In conclusion, the right people can set your business up for success. But the opposite is true too: the wrong people can drive your business into the ground too. Use these three strategies and apply them to your team-building process. If you look at the sports industry closely, teamwork works the same way as it does in business. As Michael Jordan said: “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.”
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