The most successful businesses have an internal, ‘moral code’ or ‘gold standard’ they hold themselves to for continuous self-improvement and long-term results. While it is by no means a requirement, setting those standards early on helps create the foundation for your company’s mission and culture. When you understand how to keep your business accountable, you are sure to be successful—now and in the future.
Here are a few suggestions for accountability, regardless of your industry or business size.
1. Promote Independence
The less a company has to look over the shoulders of its employees, the smoother the workflow. The act of promoting independence throughout your staff members is a naturally self-sorting system. Those who regularly fail to meet expectations shift until someone capable of independently managing tasks fills the spot. This method helps to maintain department deadlines and goals naturally through the efforts of each team member.
If you’re like me and you run a small business and/or one-person show, then independence is actually arguably more important because you’re holding yourself to this standard and continually pushing yourself to be better than you were yesterday.
2. Set Your Goals & Follow Through
Whether it’s time-blocking or a customized method of scheduling the day, there should not be a moment where people (including you!) are wondering what they should be doing. These schedules and goals should provide purpose with a specified result upon completion of smaller job tasks. While your company’s plans may start small or simple, know that with each meeting, you put one brick down toward your ultimate success.
3. Understand What You Represent
Some businesses maintain a principle of goodwill or take actions that connect them to their customers and the public. Understanding the concepts of “corporate social responsibility” in marketing (and beyond) is crucial for any business looking to remain active and accountable in their community. The better you can clarify what you stand for, the more that message resonates with employees and customers who understand and relate.
Alternatively, a company that is similar to you but does not have as clear of a cause is likely to seem less memorable in comparison to one that does.
Running a business is about more than creating a solid and desirable product or service. The concepts you represent and the methods you operate by are equally necessary to weather through the challenges of the future. By understanding a few of the best ways to keep your business accountable, you are well on your way to building a long-lasting company.
