Leaders Cultivate Climate

            Sir Richard Branson has built a successful empire with his Virgin Brand and I love reading his advice on business and success. This Leadership quote of his stood out to me recently because it is a philosophy I use in my business:

“Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to” – Richard Branson

              I work hard to train my team to do everything I don’t do, ie – everything in my office that does not directly involve diagnosing and treating patients. I personally train them through a series of over 100 training videos I created as well as with hands-on instruction. I know that at any time my employees can leave and get a job with any other doctor’s office and excel due to the hands-on learning and training they’ve received from me. This training not only makes my office run efficiently, but it makes me feel empowered to know that I am directly involved with the professional development of others.

              What’s awesome is that I’ve had pretty much the same team since I started my business almost 3.5 years ago! My team knows that I value their hard work and dedication to making my practice successful. I practice positive reinforcement on a daily basis and always end the day by saying “Thank You”. Those two little words are super encouraging to those working with you and for you. We all have a desire to feel useful and appreciated in our work and careers. When your team members feel valued, they will stick around. The mark of a great leader is cultivating a climate in which team members are excited about staying with you as part of your team!

What does your current business/job climate say about your Leadership Skills?

— Dr. April

Dr. Carmen April’s Speaker Series

             This post is part of a series on Leadership presented by Dr. Carmen April. She is a young entrepreneur and community leader recognized as a 2013 Nashville Business Journal Top 40 Under Forty Award Recipient and is currently a 2014 New Leaders Council Fellow – Nashville Chapter.  Dr. April is available for speaking engagements on Entrepreneurship for college students and young professionals.