A Group Effort
I hosted my first Thanksgiving dinner two years ago when I was eight months pregnant. I decided to try three new dishes from a gourmet cooking magazine, even though I lacked the two ovens needed and an ability to knead dough. Fortunately, several of my guests offered to bring their own signature holiday dishes and my husband, who’s a much better host than a cook, conceded to let us purchase a precooked turkey.
When my back started aching early that morning, I learned quickly that dinner would be a total flop unless I called for some help. My first SOS went to my best friend, an event planner, who stopped by and created a schedule for what needed to be baked and when. As the rest of our guests arrived, they asked what they could do to help. I let them mash the potatoes, load the dishwasher and cork the wine. Before too long, we were all sitting at the table, laughing and sharing a communal sense of accomplishment about the meal.
Putting good use to other people’s talents isn’t just a sign of graciousness, it’s a necessity for any successful business owner. “Our policy is that employees present two possible solutions every time they come to me with a problem,” says Tamara Friedman, DAYSPA Advisory Board member and owner of Tamara Spa (www.tamaraspa.com) in Farmington Hills, Michigan. “If you don’t involve your staff members, they’re unlikely to take an interest.”
This year, more than ever, it’s important to work together to prevent economic hardship. One thing I admire about Friedman’s managerial style is her ability to nurture the best in her staff. She does more than make her employees accountable; she allows them to flourish.
Are you underestimating any of your employees? Talk to them, and more importantly, listen to their ideas. Like my first Thanksgiving as a hostess, I’m sure you’ll find the results impressive and delightful.
Sarah Colombo
Web Editor, DAYSPA