Running a sports facility is hard work- you must keep customers happy, ensure equipment is safe and working, manage operational tasks and finances, and the list goes on. Managing staff is on that list, and it’s very challenging to do successfully when you have so many tasks to complete.
When running operational and admin tasks, utilizing a sports facility management software such as Upper Hand removes hours of extra work from your hands. But, being a great manager and leader isn’t something you can buy. These four tips to motivate your staff will help you lead better and enhance the overall culture of your sports facility.
1. Define your company values
Your company’s values are more than a poster on the wall; these are the statutes you live by each day. When defining your values, be sure that you can lead with them and encourage your staff to do the same.
During the interview process, ask questions that will reveal potential staff members’ values. For example, if one of your values is to always tell the truth, you may ask an interviewee “When is it okay to lie?” When you hire staff that reflects your values, they will find a sense of belonging in your organization. And if telling the truth is one of your values, you must lead by example and also tell the truth.
2. Respect and honor your staff
Your staff represents your business, and ultimately you. It is important to be respectful of the people who help your business run smoothly. Recognize and celebrate wins, provide opportunities for growth, offer incentives, and be clear about your company goals and objectives. Giving and asking for feedback is a sign of a great leader. Don’t be afraid to take constructive criticism, as this will build mutual respect between you and your staff.
Let’s say one of your instructors wants to start their own training business someday. A strong and confident leader will help their employees meet their goals. Provide advice, resources, and support to help your employees, even if it doesn’t directly help your business. And you never know, someday you might collaborate with them!
3. Promote teamwork and open communication
A strong team that can communicate well is key to running a successful business. Encouraging staff to collaborate, being transparent, and working together to solve problems helps not only your staff, but the athletes they train as well. When things unexpectedly go wrong, it is important to work together to solve the problem. When you lead in this manner, employees will follow suit.
It is also important to understand that every person is different, and each employee will learn differently than others. As a great leader, learning and adapting toward each individual’s learning style is what sets you apart from other leaders.
4. Foster positive relationships
Similarly to coaches building relationships with their athletes, nurturing relationships with your staff helps them feel seen, cared about, and motivated. Getting to know them beyond work shows them that you care. Maybe you have a staff softball game, happy hour, or impromptu ice cream outing. Hosting team-building activities and social events helps create camaraderie within your organization (plus, everyone loves food).
This article is just a few of the many ways you can motivate your staff. But, it is important to remember that being a great manager and leader isn’t something you can buy. So, take these four tips and apply them to your business to motivate your staff and make your business the best it can be.
