Conventional wisdom dictates that managers are senior and in control, while workers serve at their command. However, this hierarchy is counterproductive. To achieve success, these roles must be reversed.
In a typical business scenario:
300 workers may be managed by 6 managers.
The role of a manager should evolve into that of a servant leader. Their primary responsibility is to empower and resource their team members, creating an environment conducive to peak performance. The true clients of a manager are their staff, and by serving them well, managers ultimately serve their company and leadership effectively. The most effective managers are those who enable their teams to excel.
Every worker should be considered a manager in their own right within their specific domain. They should be empowered to make decisions, take initiative, and drive outcomes. Proper training and trust are crucial in enabling workers to take ownership of their responsibilities.
When properly empowered and supported:
Workers will take ownership of their roles, resulting in 300 top performers.
Loyalty increases, reducing absenteeism and shrinkage.
Business costs decrease due to increased efficiencies.
Sick leave diminishes as employees are motivated to work even when unwell (though this should not be encouraged).
Your workforce becomes a force of persuasive sales representatives.
Productivity and innovation soar.
Managers must embrace their roles as true servants, while workers should be entrusted with managerial responsibilities. This paradigm shift not only supercharges your business but also enhances profitability without additional costs.
It’s time to rethink our approach. Workers are the true superchargers of your business. Empower them as managers, and watch your business and bottom line skyrocket.
Join the movement towards a more empowered workplace.
Yours in productivity and efficiency.
Upwards and forwards
Sidney Pretorius