The current economic crisis has required custom builders to rethink everything: how you run your business, the services you offer, where you offer them, and even what adjustments to make in your team. If you’re smart, you’ve managed these changes with a plan in place that will not only get you through the downturn but also position you to pounce when the market comes back. You’re focused and determined—both good things. But one note of caution: beware of whom you can seem to be.
Everyone’s fallen victim to being less than they’d like to be a time or two. For example, you’ve been on the phone with a client, working out a change order and acting as pleasant as can be. But as soon as you hang up, you start barking orders at your team. It’s like there are two people living in your head—the one who does what he does in order to get the job done with a smile and the one who has no regard for how he’s affecting the people who matter most.
When you’re focused on keeping your business afloat, the blinders that help you stay focused can inhibit your ability to see how you’re behaving toward others —and how it makes them feel. No matter how great your plan may be, being grumpy, short-fused, selfish, or indecisive while working your plan is a recipe for certain disaster. Think about it: If you’re being a jerk to your team and your loved ones while you’re doing your job, what are you actually accomplishing?
Riding the waves of change is as much about the human side of what we do as it is believing in your product and having a plan. Customers buy from you not only because they need what you’re offering, but also because they trust and connect with you. Your team members will stand beside you in good times and bad when you treat them respectfully. Your family will be there through thick and thin, as long as you are mindful of their needs and check your stress at the front door. You can do great things while being a jerk, but in the end you’ll be doing what you do all by yourself. If that’s the end result, then why do it at all?
In order for you to make it through tough times and preserve your relationships with your customers, team, and family, you’ve not only got to have a plan and act on it, but you’ve also got to do it with a smile on your face and a commitment that runs deeper than it ever has. You can’t just talk; you’ve got to walk the talk.
If you still need convincing, consider this: Research has shown that, over time, most people—regardless of their personality traits—begin to think and act much like those around them, which raises the question: What kind of people do you want around you? Do you want grouchy, self-serving jerks on your team, or do you want powerful, unstoppable visionaries?
When you lead with your actions and attitude, you grow a team of people around you who can help bring your vision to life. It’s that kind of confident, positive-thinking team that will be your most important tool, not just for surviving but also for thriving in today’s challenging market conditions.
Former contractor Clay S. Nelson is a radio talk show host, speaker, and business coach to home builders nationwide. He can be reached at clay@claynelsonlifebalance.com.
