Being self-employed doesn’t mean that I don’t work with other people. In fact, I’ve had to create numerous different teams throughout my career to help me achieve my goals. These days, my team gets together every morning on Skype because we all live in different places. I couldn’t do what I do without them.
Building a killer team is crucial to your success as an entrepreneur. Here’s how to do it.
1. Hire people who are smarter and have more experience than you. This may seem like a given, but I’ve found that it’s not. You may want to feel like the smartest and most experienced member of your team, but your team will be much better off if you hire members that are smarter and have more experience than you.
2. Seek out different skill sets. When you’re building a small team, it’s incredibly important that each member bring something different to the table. Make sure your team members know that you aren’t simply looking for a “yes” person. You value their opinions — especially when they differ from yours. What are your weaknesses? Find people who can fill them.
3. Avoid the temptation to micromanage. Everyone needs direction and management, but no one likes to be micromanaged. Give your team a goal and let them achieve it. They might do things differently than you would, but that’s perfectly fine — maybe even better.
4. Hire people that believe in your product. You can’t each an employee to care. If they aren’t thrilled by the opportunity to work with you, take a pass. People that truly believe in and support what you’re doing will work the hardest for you.
5. Recognize that different people have different goals. For some, it’s money. For others, it’s recognition. Make sure you understand what your team member’s long-term goals are and how you can help them achieve them. They will be incredibly loyal to you if you do this. It shows you care!
6. Set the bar high. Everyone should be on the same page in regards to what you expect and hope for. From the very onset, I make it clear that it’s important to me that people own up to their mistakes immediately. If you acknowledge it, we’ll move on, and it’s over. No harm no foul. I try to cultivate an environment where my team feels comfortable telling me about their mistakes. What matters most to you? Great communication is essential for a killer team.
7. Create a safe space. We all make mistakes; it’s better to be able to laugh at them than cry! We all have insecurities. A killer team doesn’t prey on the insecurities of another member; it works to life them up. Take the time and effort to create an open, welcoming environment. You need each other to fight the good fight.
8. Never stop learning. Make educating your team a priority. When people feel like they’re learning, they’re much more engaged with their work. How can you challenge your team in a productive way?
9. Don’t forget to celebrate your achievements as a group. There will be lots of small successes along the way. Keep your team focused and excited by making the effort to celebrate these, too. Enjoy the journey you’re on together.
Originally published on Entrepreneur.com July 11th 2014.
