People Work For People

Times have changed. Kids are growing up more connected to screens than to people, while busy schedules and bigger goals often come before family. As a result, many young adults are entering the workforce without ever having a consistent mentor in their lives. Some were never taught things as simple as making eye contact, giving a proper handshake, communicating clearly, or taking ownership. That is exactly why this truth matters more than ever: people work for people.

A group of kids praying over me

Leadership has evolved. It’s less about authority now and more about mentorship, and mentorship is what earns respect and loyalty. I’ve found that because of a lack of home training, for all kinds of reasons, the adults these kids grew into are hungry for real leadership.

They’re hungry for someone who cares about their personal goals. When a leader humbles themselves and takes the time to celebrate an associate’s personal wins, the company benefits too. You get happier employees who work harder and stay diligent because they’re working for something bigger than a paycheck. They’re working for a better life and a mentor who actually cares about them.

Sometimes a leader has to let someone go because they’re missing the mark. That’s okay, as long as you lead with clarity and coach with facts, not emotion. Honesty and transparency are also a form of care for someone’s livelihood.

I’ve hired people who just weren’t the right fit, and because I respect their livelihood, I had to part ways with them so they could go do life somewhere they could be happy. I’ve also helped several of those same people land their next job. Keeping the conversation rooted in facts helps keep it from becoming personal.

If someone didn’t work out but gave their best while they were with you, remember you’re the one who hired them. Be a good leader and help them find their next opportunity if you can.

Never drink your own poison by refusing to forgive.

You will never be a perfect leader, but you always have a choice in how you lead. So to all my leaders, and my up-and-coming leaders: focus on being a great example. Learn to be a good listener. Humble yourself enough to apologize when you mess up. Never give anyone a reason to question your character or your integrity. Put people first, not things.

If you want a crew that’s loyal, hardworking, and treats your business like their own, start investing in yourself as a leader.

You will never arrive as a great leader, but you can leave the docks. You will always be a student of leadership. It’s not about reading a book or attending a monthly training. It’s about implementing what you learn.