The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

As entrepreneurs and business leaders, we have an amazing opportunity to serve others. I’ve written in the past about the qualities and benefits of servant-leadership. The most successful leaders focus on others. This article, however, is going to focus on more – our ability as leaders to make a difference through volunteerism.

Anyone can volunteer, and I urge everyone to play their part – there are lots of worthwhile causes out there to be a part of. But as leaders, we can do something more: we can mobilize people and teams. And ultimately, that’s a rewarding experience few of us ever forget.
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For entrepreneurs, business owners and leaders, hard work is in the blood. Long hours are part of the territory and the concept of work-life balance isn’t something most of us give much thought to.

For most successful entrepreneurs, work is life. The two are closely entwined. It’s not a distinction we draw with some imaginary line on the clock. You work hard and long to see your businesses grow and take joy when your efforts come to fruition. This is how many entrepreneurs thrive.

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We all know there is a skills shortage, and we need to find a solution, quickly.

Our aging population and declining birth rates are expected to create a shortfall of one million construction workers by 2020. Skilled trades are already the hardest employees to find and hire.¹ (See “Where have all the Tradespeople Gone.”)

This isn’t just a Canadian problem – it’s a global one. Employers are struggling to fill positions within any industry that requires engineers, management, technicians, IT staff, sales representatives, and even office support staff. Meeting the current and growing shortage in Canada will require a comprehensive strategy (involving governments at all levels, along with businesses and academia to address our future labour needs.)

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When it comes to entrepreneurs, women shouldn’t be underestimated.

There are countless studies that prove this statement to be true. Women-led businesses are outperforming their male counterparts while being underrepresented in corporate leadership.

Why is this?

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After the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, and we get back to business, one critical piece of work is too frequently overlooked: the business plan.

According to a study of small business owners, 80% admit they don’t give due attention to achieving goals. At the same time, 77% say they don’t achieve their dreams for the company.¹

I believe a lack of business planning is the biggest challenge to face entrepreneurs and business leaders, and the primary reason they fall short of their vision. In fact, without a plan, it could be argued that you aren’t truly leading the business, but merely stumbling into any successes the business might experience.

But, you say, I know what I’m doing; my business plan is right here, locked in my head. Good, then take the time to set it down and define it. Write it out, so that you and your business team have it at the ready.

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As 2016 ends, it’s natural to look back at the eventful year we’ve all had. It’s been a year of big changes across industries, major events in international politics, in sports, technology, pop culture and, as always, in our individual lives.

For me, publishing Insights has been a significant highlight of the year. In January, we looked at The Power of Thank You, and it is with this in mind that I write this final blog of 2016.

Thank you.

Thank you for reading and responding, whether on the blog or in person. I have enjoyed sharing my thoughts with you, and the feedback I have received from manufacturers, retailers and other readers on the articles has been invaluable. Most important, thank you for sharing your own thoughts and opinions.

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I’ve written in the past about how “cool” it is to be an entrepreneur. How entrepreneurial business leaders make a difference in their community, finding fulfillment and control of their personal destiny.

But is entrepreneurship for everyone? Do you have it in you to become a great entrepreneur?

Many people point to the success of entrepreneurs as having the “Midas Touch.” That’s all well and good, but undermines the fact that entrepreneurial success is hard work and requires a commitment and dedication that many don’t have.

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Most businesses face two constant truths: their success hinges on great customer service, and their owners can’t be everywhere at once.

Our last few articles looked at just how crucial customer service can be. Without us even knowing, a single poor experience can lose a customer – perhaps forever. On the flipside, I believe delivering the right customer experience will make lifelong, loyal customers.

But how does one consistently deliver the right customer experience, especially as your business grows and you cannot always be the face the customer sees? The answer: by developing a strong company culture that reinforces your values. Those things that set your company apart from your competition.

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Want to be a better leader? Check your ego at the door.

The most successful leaders focus on the needs of others before themselves. While this is especially true in regards to your employees, it’s also an important trait to maintain with your customers, friends, family and people in general.

As a business leader, your job is addressing the needs of your team and customers while providing leadership to fulfill them. This is an art, but the humble commitment to your team, customers and others—listening and responding to their needs— makes for solid leadership and ultimately drives innovation and success.

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For decades universities have been the assumed “go-to” for Canadian youth. Parents and educators alike have pointed to the university system as the means to jobs, financial security, wealth and rewards. Employers, in turn, have bought into a sort of “credentialism” that reemphasized this idea.

But has that changed?

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