Building a team that’s as invested in your company’s success as you are is a significant challenge for any leader. Mike Michalowicz, an entrepreneur and author of several small business must-reads like *Profit First* and *The Pumpkin Plan*, has dedicated his career to mastering the art of leadership. Early in his journey, Michalowicz learned a valuable lesson: true leadership isn’t about setting ambitious goals; it’s about inspiring your team to care deeply about those goals.
The Wake-Up Call: A Lesson in Leadership
Early in his career, Michalowicz proudly presented his team with a bold new vision: reaching $10 million in revenue. He expected enthusiasm and excitement but was instead met with silence. A colleague’s words were a harsh reality check: “Mike, if we achieve $10 million in revenue, you get the bigger house. You get the new car. That’s your vision. What about our vision?”
This experience was a turning point for Michalowicz. It made him realize that a leader’s vision must resonate with the entire team, not just the leader.
How to Build an Unstoppable Team
1. Ask What They Could Do, Not What They Should Do
Most leaders instruct their team on what needs to be done. Great leaders, however, engage their team by asking what they believe can be done. A powerful example of this approach is found in the Baltimore Museum of Art, where a successful exhibit was curated by museum guards. This initiative began when a curator asked a guard about his daily experiences, leading to the creation of "Guarding the Art." Great leaders foster a sense of ownership by inviting their team to contribute ideas and solutions.
2. Assemble and Unify Your Team
The story of the US rowing team in the 1936 Olympics, as depicted in *The Boys in the Boat*, showcases the power of unity. Despite being inexperienced, the team won gold because their leader helped them connect, communicate, and trust each other deeply. Michalowicz emphasizes that great leaders prioritize creating strong, unified teams capable of overcoming any challenge.
3. Implement the FASO Model
Michalowicz developed a four-part model known as “FASO,” which outlines the essential elements of effective leadership. Here’s how to apply it:
- Fit: Ensure that every new hire is a perfect fit for your organization, and vice versa. The alignment between personal and organizational values is crucial.
- Ability: Look beyond experience and innate skills. Focus on hiring individuals with raw potential, curiosity, and a genuine passion for the role.
- Safety: Prioritize your team’s physical, relational, and financial safety. Create a transparent financial culture and educate your team on personal finances, ensuring they feel secure in every aspect of their work environment.
- Ownership: Encourage your team to take ownership of their work. When people feel a personal connection to their tasks, they are more motivated and engaged. Michalowicz wisely notes, “When we’re forced to comply, we’ll seek to defy.”
Conclusion: Leadership That Cares
Michalowicz’s key message is simple yet profound: “No one cares how you care; they care THAT you care.” By incorporating these leadership strategies, you can build a team that not only cares about your company’s success but also feels personally invested in achieving it.
Ready to transform your leadership approach? Start by asking your team what they could do, focus on unity, and implement the FASO model to create an unstoppable team that’s as passionate about your company’s success as you are.
