Leader – Trainer

I was talking to a group of business owners the other day, and one of them said that earlier in his career, he would tell salespeople to learn something that he himself did not know how to do.  In this case, it was everything involved with knowing how to sell their service successfully.  

It didn’t work out too well.  In fact, he said it wasn’t until he buckled down and learned the sales process that he could build a team of others who could do it.  

I can relate.  I had that exact experience unfold over a lot of years earlier in my career, too.  Certain functions in your business are critical.  If the leader does not understand those areas and their key functions, they can be neglected by their team without him/her knowing it, or knowing what to do about it.

I started to reflect on my career as a trainer.  If I weren’t a teacher, I could not get as far as I/we have.  If I weren’t a leader of a business who had to make payroll this week, my teachings would not have the intent and purpose that they do.  

I have to teach the key functions in my business.  And “our life” depends on how well I do that.  I don’t just deliver a lecture, give the test at the end of the semester, and move on to the next class.  I MUST improve my team members’ behavior, results, skills, and productivity.  That not only relies on teaching facts, but also unlocking their motivations and hearts.

Sure, as we scale, I get other teachers to do the teaching, but I must ensure that they are teaching what moves the needle, not just checking the “Hey, we trained you” box.  

Leader – Trainer.  Peanut butter and jelly.