In this blog post, I'll discuss the powerful concept of "You Get What You Tolerate." This idea emphasises the importance of addressing problems and issues in your business, rather than tolerating them.
By taking control and setting clear boundaries, you can improve your company's culture, efficiency, productivity, and ultimately, its success.
Identifying the Problems
When you come across something that is bothering you or hindering your business, it is crucial not to turn a blind eye. Whether it's a persistent issue or a problematic team member, ignoring these concerns will only lead to bigger problems down the line. It's natural to hesitate in addressing these matters, fearing confrontation or potential negative outcomes. However, by tolerating them, you are allowing them to fester and grow, eventually reaching a boiling point that can be detrimental to your business.
Setting Boundaries and Taking Action
To regain control, it is essential to establish a culture within your business where team members understand the line that should not be crossed. This line represents what you are willing to tolerate and what you are not. When someone crosses that line, it's time to have a discussion with them. Rather than approaching it with a confrontational mindset, view it as an opportunity to counsel and improve their performance.
The Power of Counseling for Improving Performance
By adopting the mindset of improving the team member's performance, you create a win-win situation for both parties. Surprisingly, in many cases, the person in question may not even be aware that they have caused any issues. Through open and honest communication, you can come to a resolution, addressing the problem and making them aware of the consequences of their actions. This approach often leads to positive change and growth.
Possible Outcomes
In most instances, addressing the problem head-on will result in a positive outcome. Approximately 80% of the time, the team member will understand, make adjustments, and not repeat the behavior. However, in about 10-15% of cases, a second discussion may be necessary, accompanied by a warning or consequence if the behavior continues. In rare cases, termination may be the only solution. While this may seem like a negative outcome, it can still be a win-win situation, freeing both parties from a toxic situation and allowing them to move forward.
The Ripple Effect
Creating a culture where problems are not tolerated has a significant impact on the rest of your team. When one member is causing disruptions, it often affects the entire team's morale and productivity. By addressing these issues, you not only improve the individual's performance but also boost overall efficiency and productivity, leading to increased profits. Additionally, you develop your leadership skills by effectively handling difficult conversations, earning the respect of your team.
Real-Life Example
Consider a situation where a team member consistently took one day off each month, causing disruptions. Rather than ignoring the issue, a discussion was initiated to understand the reasons behind this behavior. It was discovered that the team member had a recurring appointment for their child's medical needs. By brainstorming together, a solution was found: the team member agreed to adjust their schedule to accommodate the appointment, ensuring they fulfilled their responsibilities while still attending to their family's needs. This win-win situation not only resolved the problem but also improved team dynamics and overall satisfaction.
In conclusion, the concept of "You Get What You Tolerate" is a powerful reminder that addressing issues in your business is essential for growth and success. By setting boundaries, having open discussions, and taking appropriate action, you can create a positive work environment, improve productivity, and enhance your leadership skills. Don't let the fear of confrontation or discomfort prevent you from taking control and building a thriving business. If you would like to explore implementing these strategies into your business, please book a call with me. Together, we can find the best approach for your unique circumstances.
Remember: You have the power to shape your business's future by not tolerating the things that hinder its growth and potential.