Saturday 28 December 2013

New Year and all that

As we come to the end of 2013, it's been a very education year.  I've learned the following things:
1. That I am just starting this journey of becoming a true business person.  It is like a crash course MBA.
2. That I understand the need for decisiveness and the need for proper discussions with conflicting views.
3. That I do not think about people enough, and yet people contribute so much (if not all) of the success of a business.
4. That being in the hot seat ie the Managing Director, is the toughest seat in the company.  It is also probably the most rewarding for growth.  But wanting to do the job may not mean being the best suited to the job.
5. That one must have self-awareness of what it best for the business, even if it is contrary to what I personally want, is fundamental to its long term success.  Having said that, when you align personal needs with business needs is when the business can really take off.

So key actions for 2014.
1. Stay involved in the business, even with this Deep Dive.  Watch and learn, and if required, do and learn.  I must have a better handle on how all the parts come together.
2. I must be ready to take up the position again.  What does being ready mean?  The ability to continue to deliver on the targets that have been made.
3. Learn learn learn.  Keep asking "why" until I get a satisfactory answer.  Be willing to come back to address the issue.  It is too easy for me to just nod and agree.  I need to do that less and assess the information as I go along.
4. Really hold people accountable for their jobs.  On the other hand, really understand the people to know why they do the things they do.
5. Shadow Jo for Suntec build as I have no experienced that side of the business.