Hi

In last week’s Sunday Supplement I lamented the lack of training by UK firms which is not only a cause of our dismal productivity compared with our near neighbours but also a reason for a lack of competitiveness.

But even in those businesses that provide excellent training for their teams, training alone isn’t enough to ensure success. You must also create a high-performance culture in which people can thrive.

There are six key pillars that must be in place to create a high-performance culture.

Vision: We hear this a lot, but it is essential to communicate a clear vison of who you are as a business and what you want to achieve. In the mid-80s I opened a new office in Chester for Spicer & Pegler, a national accountancy practice. We had a clear vision which was to be the pre-eminent firm serving the needs of businesses with a turnover of £1m-£10m in the City and surrounding area. Team members bought into this ‘why’ and it was the glue that held us together.

Mindset: For teams to perform at the highest level possible every person needs to have a positive, growth mindset. In a small entrepreneurial business, there is no room for negative or defensive members. It is amazing how quickly a positive, ‘can-do’ attitude permeates a culture and builds a collaborative framework.

Teamwork: Just as in the very best sports teams, everyone must be a team player and the team always comes first. If you can create a team culture it becomes simple to work well together and outperform your competition. Fun events are a great way for teams to bond. At Spicer & Pegler I organised regular team evenings to go bowling or play pub skittles followed by a meal together. It is essential that these events include the most senior as well as the most junior team members who may not always work closely together every day.

Passion: Never assume that your people will be as passionate as you are; think of ways to help them develop their own passion for the business by understanding their personal goals and ambitions. Celebrate effort as well as success and make it fun!

Focus: In the modern digital world there are so many distractions it can be difficult to stay focused. Most business owners assume their people are focused and working on their most important strategic tasks (which may be true) but it is easy for them to become side-tracked. Know how and when to ensure everyone is 100% focused, create deadlines and reward (see below) achievement.

Recognition and reward: Recognition is a huge motivator. People long for acceptance and recognition both by their leaders and peers; it creates pride and a sense of achievement. So be innovative and bold with your recognition and rewards programme to keep it fresh and inspiring. It’s not all about money. A voucher for a meal or concert tickets to a person’s favourite band are far more personal.

Creating this type of winning culture requires great leadership and building the trust and respect of your team. If you are leading your team well, they shouldn't see their role as just a job but should feel motivated and excited about the potential to develop and have a great career working with you and your business.

Noel Guilford

PS There will be no Sunday Supplement next week. But on Boxing day look out for the start of my 12 days of Christmas Challenge. Every day for twelve days until 6th January I'll be sharing a tool or technique with you - and giving away some gifts - to help you better understand your business numbers. So, whether you love numbers or are just getting started on your journey to becoming a business mathematician there'll be something everyone can use to accelerate their business performance.

Have a wonderful Christmas.