Recently, I came across a book, “Outstanding! 47 ways to make your organization exceptional” by the author John G Miller. Was quite an interesting read. If not all the 47, I would love to share some key techniques that we are implementing in our organization.
So here you go.
#1 STICK TO YOUR MISSION
Keep your mission on ‘Top of your mind’ not just in papers. Believe in your mission and make it a part of your culture. When the company’s mission reflects in each and every employee, then you can proudly say - “We believe in our mission”.
#2 BE FAST
Be really fast in making decisions and adapting to market needs. Taking the time to make right decisions is critical—so the deal is to make good decisions faster. Nurture a culture that sends the message: Let’s get it done . . . yesterday!
#3 VALUE IDEAS OVER POLITICS
Never overlook/dismiss an idea just because it didn’t come from the “right” person. Importance should always be given to “what is the idea” instead of “who shared that idea”
#4 GIVE PEOPLE TOOLS NOT SLOGANS
It’s good to have a mission and slogan but also ensure employees are equipped with the right tools and training to succeed.
#5 SPEAK UP
Everyone has a voice and make sure it is heard. If you disagree, speak up. If you have an opinion, share it. A lot of people don’t speak up due to the fear of authority or lack of confidence. Hence, ideas are left unshared. Your responsibility is to create an open and friendly atmosphere where people can share and discuss their ideas, concerns and opinions.
#6 FORGIVE MISTAKES
Let’s admit it, nobody is perfect and we all make mistakes. Instead of focusing our energy on a blame game, let us plan introducing corrective measures and ensuring we don’t make the same mistake again.
#7 COMPETE WITH COMPETITORS, NOT WITH EACH OTHER
Always promote a healthy competition so that it motivates the employees to come up with better idea, solutions, products and more. But in the end it is crucial to ‘Work as a team, succeed as a team.’ A company divided within itself will not survive long, let alone the thought of being outstanding.
#8 BELIEVE OR LEAVE
Belief cannot be enforced. So, if you don’t believe in an organization, its product, service, value or mission then you should not stay. Belief drives passion and passion is what excites you to go to work. So, rather than sticking around and tolerating, it is better to leave the organization and look for the opportunities that excite you.
#9 CELEBRATE BIG AND SMALL VICTORIES
Celebration doesn’t always mean grand parties. Any small action to acknowledge and appreciate each other is also a great way to celebrate and show your appreciation to each other’s accomplishments.
#10 STAND BEHIND YOUR STUFF
Take responsibility and ownership for your product. Blaming external factors for your failure is a classic example of running away from your responsibilities.
Above all, KNOW THE PULSE OF YOUR CUSTOMER. A key point to keep in mind is that the customer is always right. Having good business ethics and offering highest standard of customer service excellence is the smart way to handle client relations. Always remember it is the customers that holds key to the rise and fall of a business.
So now the question is, “What are you doing to make your organization outstanding?”
I would love to hear from you. Do share your comments below.