Sustainability has many definitions. Often it’s defined as taking care of the resources it takes to run our business. In many cases, the resources are finite and must be preserved for future generations. Yet more and more, I see farms unable to sustain their growth because of labor.
The following are three leadership traits that will build the team and the culture you want. These tips are for owners, next-generation family and key employees.
1. Model the way
Selfless, trustworthy, humble, positive attitude and respectful. Wouldn’t we all want these in our employees? What about being organized, communicating well, regulating emotions and dealing with conflict? Does upper management model the way, or do they get a pass because they are an owner? No one can force owners and leaders to model the way. The accountability must come from within. How you act is how they will act.
2. Enable Others
Grow your employees’ abilities by delegating work and outcomes to them. Delegation and coaching are often confused with commanding or passing out instructions. This means the tasks are 100% off of your plate and out of your mind. But you need to trust and have confidence in their abilities. Everyone only has so much time, and enabling others to act independently is key when farms want to scale up or bring in the next generation.
3. Connect with heart
Often, we’re so busy getting the task list done that we forget about the human side of the farm. Maybe you wish you had no employees: no problems, no emotions, no time off. However, have you ever been part of a great high school or little league team? Win or lose, you were all together. That’s what a great farm culture looks like; no machine will replace the fun of being part of a great group of people.
Get to know your employees as people beyond what they bring to work. Understand their dreams, goals, family and frustrations. When you actively listen and connect with what’s important to them, they will be more loyal than imagined.
The industry is only sustainable when everyone takes care of the resources, including human resources. Strong culture and positive behavior start at the top.
