Tanya Doran
By TANYA DORAN
Executive Director, Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce
Recently, I met a professor who teaches a variety of business courses at a local college. “What is the greatest challenge of teaching today’s students majoring in business management?” I asked. I was surprised to learn the answer.
“By far, attendance,” he said, adding, “and the students who do attend are focused on their phones”
These responses made me a little sad, especially as I thought about the future, when today’s students will be tomorrow’s leaders, entrepreneurs and business managers. But then I thought back to my college days and remembered my youth, recalling the many mistakes I made.
I like to think that through these mistakes I learned and developed into a responsible and productive adult, and I have faith the same will be true for today’s students. We were all young, inexperienced and immature at some point in our lives. Many of the business owners and managers working in our community today give us hope. They are a determined bunch. These folks don’t lack ambition or dedication. They’re resourceful, they lead by example and often work long hours wearing many different “hats” to get the job done.
As we near the end of 2017, I suggest you reflect and identify the challenges you faced and mistakes you’ve made this past year. Spend time considering what changes you need to make to be more efficient and ultimately more productive in the new year, then create a plan of action to make it happen. Set specific goals and determine how to measure them consistently.
You can achieve greater success by involving others. You’ll be amazed at the results when you share your vision with folks who will help hold you accountable and encourage you on as you fulfill your goals.
Business owners easily become focused on daily operations, failing for one reason or another to pause and look at the big picture. This can be a costly mistake.
As a business owner or manager, you are encouraged to review current policies and procedures and ensure your employees have the tools necessary to succeed. Identify opportunities to simplify and get back to the basics. Invite employees and customers to provide ideas and suggestions for improvement.
And finally, support other community businesses by shopping local and expressing appreciation to the people who work hard to serve us well.
