Common leadership mistakes for small business owners to avoid

Small business owners often have to wear a variety of different hats – human resources manager, promotional executive in charge of developing marketing strategies for small business, event planner, quality assurance, customer service – that comes with the territory of owning your own business. However, amid all this, small business owners can’t lose sight of what their primary responsibility at work has to be –  leadership. No matter what the company does, in what industry, and regardless of how many workers are employed, an owner’s job is to lead his company and employees through any scenario. However, leadership is much more than just sabre-rattling and speaking with a loud voice. There are many nuances that go into strong leadership, many of which are eschewed. Here are some common leadership tips that small business owners in particular should look out for and avoid.

Implementing a ‘no tolerance’ policy
There is a common adage that says ‘to err is human, to forgive is divine.’ This is an essential component to leadership in a small business environment, where, especially for a startup, mistakes are to be expected. While a small business owner with much invested is understandably looking to ensure that everything runs smoothly, mistakes in the early going are to be expected. Inc. Magazine recommends that instead of ruling aboard an iron throne, small business owners should consider fostering an environment of admitting mistakes and learning from them.

Obliviousness to oneself
Inc. Magazine recommends taking one of the dozens of diagnostic personality tests available to really get a well-rounded and accurate picture of yourself. Looking in the mirror often clouds one’s judgment of their own character, which could lead to a slippery slope of lacking self awareness. Instead, being totally self aware from day one would allow you to admit to and work on your own weaknesses, setting the tone for the rest of your employees.

Money over everything
Profits are an essential component of business, but they are not the only part. Employee growth, company culture and making a difference are all vital parts of doing business as well. Again, setting the tone of profit-mongering and the bottom line over all else would create an unhealthy working environment. Encourage balance and your bottom line should see robust growth as well.

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