Two years ago I was burning the candle at both ends. I was working nearly full time for an outside client and trying to run Priority VA. Quickly, the 17 hour works days were affecting my life both personally and professionally. I had to figure out how to shift from being the doer to the leader. Sounds easy, right?!
You’d think it would be an easy transition since I coach other entrepreneurs how to onboard a Virtual Assistant to boost productivity and free up their time. Don’t get me wrong, I had a good handle on what my role needed to look like but when you’re always the one “doing” it’s hard to let go.
Today I’m sharing how I shifted from doing to leading.
Hire The Right People
The first step in becoming the leader is to get the right people on the bus. I started small. I hired my first Executive Assistant 4 ½ years ago and since then, I’ve added 5 additional team members. The growth happened because I knew the qualities I was looking for and that was the foundation I needed to grow.
Hire people who understand your business and where you’re going. When you’re hiring a VA, don’t stop at their skills assessment… this relationship goes far beyond what someone can do for you.
Over the years I’ve spoken with CEOs who have hired team members based solely on their resume only to find out later that they were… how should I put it… sketchy. I’m going to go out on a limb here and guess that even your smartest employee should have integrity. Am I right?
It seems ridiculous to even mention it but not everyone is going to embody the characteristics of someone trustworthy. Truth, responsibility, and integrity aren’t always qualities people value.
Listen, I’ve made bad hires before. We all have! It’s easy to get persuaded by achievements but I’m here to tell you that unless there’s character to back those achievements, keep moving.
I’ve said on multiple occasions that I can teach skills but I can’t teach integrity. Keep that in mind when you’re hiring your VA.
Stop Being A Helicopter CEO
Being a Helicopter CEO, a.k.a. Micro-manager is a sure fire way to remain a “doer” in your business.
I know, I know! It’s easier if you “just do it yourself”. Ya’ll, it’s cute when a toddler says it but not nearly as cute when it comes from the mouth of an adult. Stop micromanaging everything your team does.
Your VA is capable.
They are smart and are put in this position to help you. Rather than do all the things and push all the buttons, let them! If I held on to every task at Priority VA, I’d crumble! Your VA wants to help. Let them.
Making the transition from doing to leading begins by letting go of what shouldn’t be doing.
Lead With Confidence
Making the shift from doing to leading feels like a brand new job. Own it!
That’s right…. Be a leader full of confidence. Your team is going to follow suit and your confidence (or lack of) will measure the success of your team. When no one has faith in their leader, things can fall apart rather quickly.
Your job as the leader of your organization is to provide the tools your team needs, absorb the podcasts and books to help you better develop your skills as a leader, and encourage your team in their areas of strength.
When I’m out for a run, driving in the car, or even in the shower, I consume podcasts and audiobooks like they’re going out of style. Not only do I listen to become a better leader, but I also have a book in my hand. Commit yourself to read one leadership book a month. Read one chapter a day. If that’s too much, read a few pages. Regardless of whether it’s a chapter or a few pages throughout the week, make learning a priority. Here are a few of my favorite books and podcasts for leaders:
Community Made with Jayson Gaignard
Second in Command with Cameron Herold
The Leadercast Podcast
Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters
Bluefishing: The Art of Making Things Happen by Steve Sims
Nothing will boost morale or destroy it more than the level of confidence found in a leader. Become a confident leader, get the right people on your team, and let go of what you shouldn’t be doing.
Are you ready to make the shift from doing to leading? I’ve been there, done that, and bought the coffee mug! Use this link and my team will chat with you about how to make the shift in your business.