Essential Leadership Skills Every Business Owner Should Develop
BlogJuly 5, 2024

Essential Leadership Skills Every Business Owner Should Develop

Why Business Owners are NOT Instant Leaders

man in suit with thumb up sign

Photo by Lukas

Just because you’re the owner of the business, doesn’t automatically make you a great leader, or a manager. There’s a whole lot more you need to develop! Ready to transform your leadership skills game? Let’s dive in!

This may come across harshly, but just because you’re the owner of the business, doesn’t automatically make you a great leader, or a manager.  

If you’re scratching your head, you’re not alone! 

The line between these roles can blur, but understanding the difference is crucial for driving your business to success and helping you step into your role as a Leader. 

So, what’s the difference between managing and leading? 

While both are essential for organisational success, they involve different approaches and skills which, once developed, can be foundational to an organisation’s success.

In this article, we will explore what sets managers and leaders apart and why balancing both is key to effective team performance.

Building your own power team? Find the perfect Champion fit for your business and your goals, or speak to our Growth Strategist today!

Leading VS. Managing – What’s the Difference?

To draw the line, let’s define what management and leadership is.

man using laptop thinking

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

What is Management?

Simply put, management is all about organisation and coordination. 

This means that managers are focused on setting, measuring, and achieving goals by managing situations to reach or exceed their objectives. 

The tasks are technical, involving planning, budgeting, staffing, and problem-solving. 

Essentially, a good manager is task-oriented and process-driven.

As business owners, this is very important, right?

We’d say that many business owners begin with this quality — the need to ensure that your day-to-day operations run smoothly and efficiently. 

What is Leadership?

Leadership, on the other hand, is about inspiring and motivating people. 

Leaders are visionaries who create a compelling future that others want to follow. 

The unique thing about it is that you don’t have to be up in the ladder to be a leader. You don’t even need a title – it is not based on the hierarchy of the organisation. 

Good leaders have a quality that allows them to influence and guide individuals and teams to achieve that vision by encouraging innovation, fostering collaboration, and building strong relationships.

In short, leadership is people-oriented and it relies on emotional intelligence to connect with and inspire team members.

Related read: Collective Triumph: Nurturing and Empowering Your Team Members

Leadership VS Management at a Glance

Here’s a quick comparison to help you envision the fine line between management and leadership skills. 

leadership vs management table comparison

Need help in finding the perfect fit team members for your business? Speak with our Growth Specialist today and be paired with one of our Champions!

Why Should You Maintain a Balance of Management and Leadership Skills?

team meeting looking at the laptop

Photo by Fox

However, we sometimes tend to lean more on one side than the other.

If you’re striving to be a great manager, you might find yourself stressing heavily on your SOPs and organisation, overlooking the fact that you are working with human beings.

Focusing too much on managerial aspects like reaching goals and quotas can lead to a cold, burned out relationship with work, your team, and with yourself. 

On the flipside, just focusing on inspiring people without the right push to the goals won’t be very productive too. 

It can lead to disparaged, disorganised and missed out processes, which can cost the business too much in the long run. 

So, why should you, as a business owner, aim to develop the right balance between managing and leading?

The first reason is, of course, to keep your team happy in their work. When your team members feel that they are guided, valued, and heard, their productivity increases and your goals are achieved.

Second is that with the right balance of managing and leading, you can make more sensible choices for the business, knowing that the technical and the emotional aspects of being a business owner are thoroughly studied and considered.

Imagine an organisation that has its goals, tasks, systems, and processes solidly in place, running smoothly, and each team member is motivated and inspired to roll up their sleeves everyday because their voice is heard in each meeting.

Or an organisation that uses data analysis, policies and procedures while also taking calculated risks and making bold moves that can drive significant progress and innovation for the business.

That’s the ideal one!

A workplace where team members can grow and flourish, without micromanagement or fear, because everyone practices accountability in their roles.

But of course, it’s not done in a snap of your fingers. Nope, no instant skills here!

It happens as you actively practice and aim to change for the better with each experience you face.

When you learn how to practice both management and leadership skills, you create a healthy work environment for your team members and the business itself. 

You’ll know where to steer the wheel into the road to success.

Case Study: Leadership Impact on a Champion’s and Business’ Growth

So, how does this look in action? Let Dina help you paint the picture for you.

Dina, one of our fantastic Champions for a few years now, loves her role with her client, a property developer, and her experience at The Growth Hub. 

As a property Champion, her tasks include researching off-market properties, conducting deep dive analysis, and preparing these properties for marketing on her client’s website.

Those have nitty-gritty details, which make them both challenging and rewarding!

But because she’s surrounded with supportive people – those who have the right balance of management and leadership skills – she was able to enjoy her work and be productive at the same time.

Dina appreciates the balance of freedom and responsibility she has, which allows her to achieve not just work-life balance, but work-life harmony!

Watch her full story here:

In Dina’s point of view, it is the positive and supportive work culture at TGH that plays a big part of this, with training and development opportunities that help her excel in her tasks. 

“REAL-ationships” and accountability? Those are her favorite work values as she works with her client and with TGH.

These values mirror both the exceptional management and leadership skills of the organisation she is in.

Lead and Manage Your Team Effectively!

man with his team working on computers

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

So, if you want to grow your business and your team, it’s high time to develop both management and leadership skills.

Get your tasks, processes, and systems in place so that everything in your business runs smoothly and your efficiency is increased.

Hint: our Grow With the Flow program can help you with that!

Then be sure to help your team members hit those goals and progress by inspiring them with the vision of the future. 

And don’t forget to strengthen relationships as colleagues too. Trust is big in building relationships, and that’s where the growth begins!

As a successful business owner, remember that you’re not just looking after the numbers, you’re also looking after the people.

It’s this blend of skills that sets the stage for long-term success.

If you’re ready to build your own team and begin to develop these fantastic management and leadership skills we mentioned, let’s connect!

Our Growth Strategist can help you find the right person for your business and begin building your team.

Book a free 15-20-minute call with our Growth Strategist today and let the growth begin!

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BlogMarch 13, 2024

Fueling Appreciation: Why Thanking Employees/Team Members Matters

Why Thanking Employees/Team Members Matters

Photo by Yan Krukau

Wondering how thanking employees can change your business’ success trajectory? Learn more about it and some fun appreciation ideas you can to for your team members! 

It’s not always obvious, but gratitude is one of the best attitudes a successful person and community could ever have. It has the same effect on your business and workplace!

When people appreciate each other, it forms the bedrock of a positive work environment that employees/team members would love to be in. 

Who doesn’t like to receive a “thank you” or a “great job” after all their efforts, right? In reality, people are hard-wired to feel that they belong. 

Recognising one’s work sparks a culture of support and collaboration, inspiring co-workers to do their best to support each other. Thus, bringing in more success to the business!

Appreciation isn’t just nicety, but it’s a foundation for a more valued, motivated, and connected group of people in an organisation.

In this article, let us talk more about making appreciation a habit and some best ideas you can do it in your organisaton, just like how we do it at TGH! As a result, our Champions are pumped up to do the very best day can everyday to make sure we all deliver to the our partners excellently. 

Ready to make appreciation a habit? Let’s get started!

Want to onboard a gratefully fantastic Champion to your business? Reach out to out Growth Strategist today!

Should You Make Thanking Employees a Habit?

Photo by Yan Krukau

When you are vocal about appreciating your team, you’re boosting their morale and motivation. 

Everyone loves a pat on the back, don’t we? 

Being vocal and open in giving out praises and positive feedback blesses firstly your team members! Studies have shown that when team members feel valued and appreciated, they are more likely to improve and deliver excellent performance. It’s going to be a domino effect because it’s your people who carry the business. 

If they are excellent, so will your business be! That’s proof that a simple “Thank you” or “Great job!” can go a loooong way in your business. It doesn’t cost money, but it will surely yield a lot. 

Appreciated team members are more engaged and loyal.

This result is closely connected with the first one. Employees/team members who are appreciated and seen feel more connected with you and your cause in the business. 

As a result, they become more emotionally invested in their work, dedicating success to the business. 

They become more loyal, lessening attrition rates in the organisation. Well, who would want to leave an organisation where you’re treated right?

Team recognition at its finest!

A positive, toxic-less work environment makes people stay, apart from the paycheck they receive. It’s something no amount can buy.

Team collaboration and productivity are the fruits of work appreciation.

Photo by Yan Krukau

An organisation that sees and notices individual and team achievements sets the stage for a culture of collaboration and teamwork. 

When everyone in the business feels a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, this leads to improved teamwork and increased productivity as everyone works towards shared goals.

Collaboration and gratitude at its finest!

A positive culture is equal to a positive company reputation and employer branding.

Aside from blessing and building up the people, one of the best results of making appreciation a habit is that it sends a powerful message to both employees and your potential clients/leads.

Publicly posting shoutouts and spotlights on your social media demonstrates that the company values its people and recognizes their contributions, which enhances the company’s reputation as an employer of choice. 

This creates a positive perception of the organization as an appreciative and supportive employer. 

And it strengthens its employer branding, making it more attractive to top talent and positively impacting recruitment and retention efforts.

Isn’t this a fantastic effect? 

Want to have a powerhouse of team members that you can be proud to give shout outs for? Speak to our Growth Strategist to know how!

Fun Team Appreciation Ideas for Team Members

If you’re a business owner thinking of ways you can show your team you appreciate them, we’ve got some tried and tested ideas we do at TGH!

Having a large group of virtual assistants, or as we call them, Champions working virtually isn’t a hindrance to make our team feel loved and appreciated. 

Ready for some fun team appreciation activities? 

Here they are!

Virtual Game Nights and Social Call Highlights

Working virtually, of course, we love virtual calls with the whole team! Not just business calls, but the ones where we can enjoy, share laughs and do some friendly competition!

You can come up with simple games such as virtual escape rooms, trivia quizzes, or online multiplayer games like Kahoot.

In these calls, we also share highlights and wins for our team members, especially those who are new, so they’ll feel welcome to the fold. 

Oh, and the ones who celebrate their birthdays and work anniversaries. This is the opportunity for us to celebrate, bond, unwind, and create stronger connections with each other, even if we’re miles apart. 

Trust us, your team will love it!

Team Member Appreciation Wall

This is a fun way to celebrate milestones for your team! Virtual or physical appreciation walls are where team members can share shoutouts, compliments, and words of encouragement for their colleagues. 

What we love about this is how interactive it is to show support for each other in a fun and visual way.

At TGH, we make it a habit to post them in our Slack channel, where everyone can react, greet, and cheer each other.

You can also try alternative options, like Kudo Boards, RecoCards, and the like. 

Team Spotlights

Team spotlights are the chance where you can feature a team member on your company’s website, blog, or social media channels. Just like these!

As you invite your team members to show their professional achievements, personal interests, and fun facts, your audience will also feel the authenticity and good work environment you have in your organisation. 

And they will see that when you take care of your team, you can also take care of your clients!

Here are some links to the blogs and videos where we put the spotlight on our team members:

Surprise Treat Deliveries

Well, who doesn’t like surprise gifts? At TGH, we LOVE IT! 

Mind you, it doesn’t have to be expensive to put a smile and brighten up your team’s day. It can be a simple card, a care package, or some sweets!

Here’s some of the sample gifts we gave our Champions and Heroes.

Our team loved it so much, and our hearts are full too!

Create Customised Awards 

Create personalized awards or certificates to recognize team members for their unique strengths and contributions. 

For example, at TGH, we base the awards on our Core Values. We had:

  • Integrity Maestro Award
  • Real-ationship Artisan Award
  • Difference-Maker Virtuoso Award
  • Adaptability Luminary Award
  • Ownership Virtuoso Award
  • Radiant Spirit Recognition

Our awardees felt loved, valued and recognised as their names were called. A pleasant surprise, indeed!

In your business, it is best to get creative with the award categories and award certificate designs.

Then present them in a virtual ceremony or during a team meeting to make it extra special!

Make Appreciation a Part of Your Culture

So, let us wrap it up with a quote from Mary Kay Ash, an American businesswoman and founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics, Inc.

Don’t be afraid to let your team members know that you appreciate and see their hard work. Give them a shoutout whenever you can!

It’s like giving them a high-five and a big ol’ thank-you hug. And you know what happens next? 

They’re all pumped up, feeling valued, and ready to tackle whatever comes their way with a smile. 

So, keep spreading those good vibes! it won’t cost much, but it will go a very looooong way. 

That’s the culture you’d want to build and stay with. 

That’s the family you’d love to have in your organisation. And it’s a wonderful thing to have, we promise!

By the way, if you’re curious how to get the best Champions in your team, our Growth Strategist can guide you there! Let’s talk soon!

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BlogFebruary 15, 2024

5 Green Flags: How to Know You’re Choosing the Right VA Agency

5 Green Flags: How to Know You’re Choosing the Right VA Agency

Photo by Kampus Production

Your investment on a virtual assistant depends on whether you got the right VA agency or not. Find out how to know if you’re choosing the right VA agency for your business in this article!

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably searched “best VA agencies”, or “top VA agencies” already and still feeling confused which one to choose. 

You might be someone who also tried looking for virtual assistant in Upwork or Fiverr, and wondering if betting on a VA agency is better that those platforms. 

With so many options emerging in this digital age, it is easier to get lost rather than get the right directions, right?

If you’re feeling that, don’t worry, that’s totally normal!

What you need is a guide to help you understand which agencies out there can really help you scale and reach your business goals. 

Related read: The Growth Hub’s Fully Supported GROWTH Model vs. Upwork/Fiverr: Which is the Better Choice for Your Business?

5 Signs You’re in the Right VA Agency

Photo by ROCKETMANN TEAM

So, how do you know if you’re in the right VA agency?

In this article, we are sharing with you the 5 green flags a VA agency MUST have, so you know you’re in the right hands.

Because let’s face it – your investment should count, and we want to get that right. 

If you’re ready, let’s unfurl the flags!

Green Flag #1: They have proven experience and expertise

In any scenario in life, a proven track record is a HUGE thing to consider, especially if it’s an investment. 

If you’re researching and you saw that this agency has extensive experience in providing exceptional virtual assistance, then they might be a good fit. 

When you hop on a discovery call with them, you will feel that they know what they’re doing when they offer valuable insights and efficient solutions to your business needs even before they partner with you. 

That is a sign that they have high-quality services that can contribute to your business’s growth and success – they’re EXPERTS!

And you’ll feel that they’re not just after your money. They really want to help you get to where you want to be. 

Ready to partner with the right VA agency? Have a chat with our Growth Specialist today and skyrocket your business!

Green Flag #2: They have good reputation and reviews

In connection with the first green flag, you will see the VA agency’s expertise and experience through the reputation they hold. 

And that comes from their current clients, of course!

Look for agencies with a solid reputation for professionalism, reliability, and client satisfaction.

That means when you do research, don’t just go to the sales page. Pay attention to client reviews and testimonials too! Doing this will help you gauge the agency’s performance and credibility, and will save you a lot of stress in the future. 

Look for an agency with positive reviews from satisfied clients. If that’s their experience, most likely the agency will also deliver results and exceed your expectations, if you choose to partner with them.

How Ashish went from 4 to 6 clients per month with the help of virtual assistants

Ashish Maholtra was a startup property business owner, with no experience working with a virtual assistant before. 

The business was good, but he was smashed with tons of work that he didn’t know how to juggle them all effectively. He confessed he was nervous and really unsure if he’s doing the right thing!

That’s when he realised he needed to change things: he needed support. SOmeone who’s reliable, can live up to his expectations, and take care of his business as much as he does. 

That’s when he met TGH. And now, from averaging 4 clients/month, he’s now getting 6 or more without getting burnt or stressed out because he’s got a Champion on his side.

He even said he can go on for an hour talking about how his Champion supports him and his business everyday! 

Talk about return on investment, right?

Watch his full story here:

If you, like Ashish, are feeling swamped with the tasks and feeling burned out, a Champion might be just what you need. 

Drop a line with our Growth Strategist and let’s tread the pathway to success together with one of our Champions!

Green Flag #3: They have solid communication and support

Here’s one thing you should remember in looking for the perfect-fit VA agency: you should feel supported throughout your partnership. 

Sadly, it has been a common practice for some agencies to mysteriously “vanish” after onboarding your VA. You got what you want, we got what we want. 

It’s a win-win! But you’re now on your own. 

But it shouldn’t be that way.

Running a business is hard, so if an agency can support you the extra mile, that would be fantastic, right?

And that is possible through clear and effective communication.

As mentioned earlier, you can detect the level of communication of your potential VA agency partner as early as your discovery call.

Find out if they have solid, structured communication channels and support systems in place. If they do, this will ensure that you can easily communicate your requirements, provide feedback, and address any issues that may arise.

Whether you’re an established business or a startup, having access to reliable communication and support from your VA agency enables smoother collaboration and enhances productivity.

Related read: Standing Out: Unveiling Our Virtual Assistant Services Packages Exclusively for Clients

Green Flag #4: They offer satisfaction guarantee services

Satisfaction guarantee services are something that gives an added layer of assurance and peace of mind to clients. 

If a VA agency stands behind its services and offers guarantees to ensure client satisfaction, that means its goal is to make sure that you receive only the best services from them. 

Your satisfaction and growth are their top priority.

Who wouldn’t like that security?

Replacement service

At The Growth Hub, we offer a VA Replacement service to ensure that your business is properly handled and supported, and your satisfaction guaranteed!

We know that despite the meticulous screening and matching process that we do, there might be some hiccups with your VA (we call them Champions) along the way.

Nobody’s perfect, so we’re more than happy to rectify the mismatch and let you get paired with the best Champions in our pool. And we do this because we want to prevent any potential disruptions to your workflow.

To be fair, our process here would be first, our Client Success Hero will hop on a call with you to understand the issue that arose while our Champion Success Hero will handle the talk with our Champion. 

We believe everyone deserves another chance, so if things can still be fixed through coaching and more training, we’ll do it for you!

If coaching and training don’t work out, then we’ll go ahead and let you interview a few more Champions in our pool to take your pick as a replacement… for FREE.

Our goal is to deliver exceptional value and support to you, so your long-term success and satisfaction is our business too.

Green Flag #5: Their service is worth its cost

Last but definitely not the least, you will, of course, have to see if the price is right. 

Like in any business, the value for money is crucial when investing in VA services. 

If the agency has reasonable pricing, has good reviews, and has established a good reputation in the business, then you’re dealing with the right one. 

This means investing in the best VA agency in the market, and you’re sure you’ll get a high return on investment (ROI) with their service. 

As you search for the right agency, assess the quality and scope of the services they offer, then compare them with their pricing. Consider factors such as expertise, reliability, and support when evaluating the value proposition.

Pro Tip: While cost is an important consideration, prioritise finding a VA agency that offers the best overall value for your specific business needs and goals.

Let’s Partner Up!

Photo by Sora Shimazaki

At TGH, we aim to help you free up your time so you can focus on the most important tasks in your business and in your life.

As an established virtual assistant agency who also offers services in marketing and systems, we have emerged as one of the best outsourcing agencies in Australia. 

But we know people don’t just take our word for it.

That’s why our hearts are warmed when our client, Joe Tucker gave such review on our service!

Our goal is to power your business while empowering our Champions and Heroes. We can be the missing link to your business scaling. If you’re ready to discover how TGH can support you in your business and get the best Champion on your side, you’re just a click away from your transformation.

Book a call with our Growth Strategist today and begin a partnership with us!

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BlogSeptember 28, 2023

Beyond Goals: A Champion’s Insights to TGH Performance Management System

A Case Study

Beyond Goals: A Champion’s Insights to TGH Performance Management System

Photo by Fauxels

Want to know how effective the TGH’s performance management system is? Let’s hear it from one of the Champions in this article!

In the high-stakes world of modern business, one thing remains crystal clear: performance management isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the secret sauce that fuels your team’s success. 

That’s why your performance management system should be firmly in place!

And while every property business owner would love to have top-notch team members, it is a fact that it all boils down to how an organisation runs and manages the people in the team.

In this article, we’ll spill the beans on Dina’s journey, her experience with TGH’s performance management, and how it transforms team members like Dina from rookies to champions. 

So, grab your popcorn (or your notepad, if you’re feeling studious), because we’re about to learn the art of performance management from an actual Champion’s perspective. 

Let’s get this show on the road!

Talk with our Growth Strategist to learn how our Champions can help you and your property business thrive and grow!

TGH’s Performance Management System Secret: Our Core Values

At TGH, our culture isn’t just a fancy poster on the wall; it’s the heartbeat of everything we do. We live and breathe it every day, infusing our work with the essence of who we are and what we stand for. 

Our core values act as our guiding North Star, ensuring that each interaction, whether with clients or our cherished Champions, reflects the TGH spirit.

Let us give you a quick run-through of how each of our core values influence our day-to-day work:

Act with Integrity

Integrity is the foundation upon which trust is built. In our daily dealings, we wear this value as a badge of honour. We commit to unwavering honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct. You CAN rely on us, Heroes and Champions, knowing that we will always do what’s right.

Evolve and Adapt

Change isn’t just a buzzword here; it’s our way of life! We understand that the world is ever-changing, and we’re committed to evolving with it. This means staying at the forefront of industry trends, adapting to new technologies, and continuously improving our processes to serve our clients better and support our Champions.

Build Real-lationships

Real-lationships go beyond the superficial; they’re the bedrock of lasting connections. We don’t just aim to satisfy our clients or work with Champions – we aim to build meaningful, long-lasting relationships. We genuinely care about the people we interact with, and it shows in our commitment to their success and well-being.

Make a Difference by Going the Extra Mile

Average isn’t in our vocabulary. We’re not here to meet expectations; we’re here to exceed them. Whether it’s delivering exceptional service to our clients or supporting our Champions on their journey to success, we go the extra mile to make a real impact.

Own It/Be Accountable

At TGH, we don’t pass the buck. We take ownership of our actions and their outcomes. If we make a promise, we keep it. If we make a mistake, we own it, learn from it, and make it right. This accountability is the cornerstone of our credibility and trustworthiness.

These core values aren’t just words on a page; they’re the driving force behind every transaction, every decision, and every interaction at TGH. 

They ensure that when you work with us, you’re not just a client or a Champion – you’re part of a culture that strives for excellence, embraces change, values relationships, makes a difference, and always holds itself accountable. 

So, how do these core values affect the performance management system at TGH? 

How do our Champions feel about it? Want to know?

Read on.

Related read: Excellent Performance Management with Virtual Assistants: The Growth Hub’s Way

Dina’s Growth Experience with TGH

Dina is Property Developer Network’s property virtual assistant, or in our terms, Champion.

She’s helping her client find market properties and does a deep dive analysis of each property. Then she’ll collate the data, then put them on the site for the buyers agents to use.

It is not a piece of cake, but because of the helpful training and support system she has at TGH, she excels in every task she takes on!

In an interview, she highlights three performance management factors that helped her grow with TGH: 

Continuous Training:  If you thought training was a one-time deal, think again. At TGH, training is a never-ending journey. It’s like a treasure chest of knowledge that keeps getting filled. 📚💡

You need help with a specific task? No worries! They don’t just hand you a fish; they teach you to fish. 

And the best part? It’s not just for you; every VA gets access to these trainings. It’s like having a toolbox filled with skills to tackle any challenge that comes your way. 🧰✨

Competitive Salary: You know that feeling when you’re doing amazing work but your paycheck doesn’t quite reflect it? Well, at TGH, that’s not a thing. 

Our salaries are not just fair; they’re competitive. There’s some serious market analysis going on behind the scenes to make sure we get what we’re worth. 💰💼

Mental Health Matters: Here’s something that’ll warm your heart. TGH cares about our mental health. Seriously, it’s not just lip service; they walk the talk. 

You can talk to your pod lead about anything and everything you’re feeling. Can’t work today? It’s okay; they’ve got resolutions in place. Need a breather? Say hello to your PTOs.

It’s like having a safety net for your sanity! 😌🌈

Watch her full story here!

Want to ace your performance management system? Grab our free e-book: How to Ace Your Performance Management Process: The Ultimate Playbook here!

Stellar Performance Management System = Stellar Team Members

And there you have it, folks – the secret sauce to success at The Growth Hub! 

It all boils down to one magical formula: Stellar Performance Management System = Stellar Team Members.

Remember this: when you take care of your team, they’ll take care of your clients like never before.

 It’s like a ripple effect of awesomeness! 🌊✨

At TGH, we’re not just about the talk; we’re all about the walk. 

Our healthy work culture isn’t just a perk; it’s our way of life. 

We nurture, support, and empower our team members, and in return, they go above and beyond to make our clients’ dreams come true.

So, whether you’re a seasoned property entrepreneur or just dipping your toes into the real estate ocean, we’ve got your back. 🏡🚀

Why not take the next step? 

At TGH, it’s not just about growing properties; it’s about growing dreams and building a stellar future together. 🏘️

Book a call with our Growth Strategist, and let’s chat about how we can help you grow your property business, just like we’ve helped so many others. 📞📈

Click that button, and let’s get started! 👇👇👇

Speak to our Growth Strategist
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BlogSeptember 12, 2023

The Future of Work: Virtual Performance Management Made Simple

The Future of Work: Virtual Performance Management Made Simple

Photo by Cotton Studios

In the evolving landscape of modern business, managing teams from afar has become the new norm. How well are we adapting our performance management practices to this virtual space?

So, you’ve got your virtual team? Perfect. How was the management experience?

Performance management, whether in a traditional office setting or a virtual environment, is the compass that guides the ship of productivity, efficiency, and employee development. 

However, as we transition to remote work setups, it’s crucial to recognize that some gears might have shifted.

Traditional performance management models, built on face-to-face interactions and physical presence, no longer suffice in the age of digital connectivity. 

In virtual environments, the dynamics change, and with them, the approaches to managing performance must evolve.

Communication can be trickier, accountability may waver, and the sense of camaraderie can be harder to foster. Yet, the potential for success is vast if we can harness the power of virtual performance management effectively.

In this article, we’ll explore practical virtual performance management tips you can implement to lead your virtual team to success.

Not sure which direction to steer your team and business? A map is what you need! Download our Buyers Agent Growth Map and get your property business properly charted to success!

Five Virtual Performance Management Tips for Buyers Agents

Photo by Fauxels

Loosen up! Be friends with your team

When it comes to virtual team management, one of the most valuable tips you can embrace is to loosen up and build a friendly rapport with your team members. 

It might sound counterintuitive to some who believe that professionalism means keeping a strict line between work and personal relationships. 

However, in the virtual realm, it’s often those personal connections that can make all the difference.

The thing is, in a physical office, you can easily stroll over to your colleague’s desk for a quick chat or catch up during lunch breaks. These casual interactions happen organically, creating a sense of camaraderie that often goes beyond work-related discussions. 

But in the virtual world, these spontaneous moments are rarer, and that’s where the intention to befriend your team comes into play. 

When you are “friends” with your team members, communication becomes more open and transparent. People are more likely to express their ideas, concerns, and feedback in a relaxed and trusting environment.

And did you know that a friendly atmosphere can boost employee morale and engagement? Happy team members tend to be more productive and motivated to do their best work.

Remember, the goal isn’t to become best friends with your team but to create a welcoming and supportive virtual environment where everyone feels comfortable and motivated to work together. 

So, go ahead, loosen up, and be friends with your virtual team – it’s a win-win strategy for effective remote team management.

Related read: Success Blueprint: Your Checklist to Effective Virtual Teamwork

Set clear goals and performance expectations with specific KPIs

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Just like in the physical office setting, setting clear goals and performance expectations, with specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), is a fundamental step in ensuring your virtual team and the business are on the right track. 

Without goals, it’s like you’re trying to hit a target blindfolded. It’s nearly impossible, right? The same goes for your virtual team. 

Clear goals and performance expectations offer several critical advantages. First and foremost, they facilitate alignment by ensuring that your team’s efforts are in harmony with the organization’s overarching objectives, which, in turn, helps to sustain focus and motivation among team members. 

These clear expectations foster accountability, as specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) establish a quantifiable yardstick for assessing performance. This accountability empowers team members to hold themselves responsible, while managers can provide more precise feedback grounded in objective data. 

In addition, the benefits extend to efficiency, as clarity dispels confusion. When team members possess a precise comprehension of their roles and performance expectations, they can work more efficiently. 

Last but not least, well-defined goals and KPIs can be powerful motivators, as they offer clear targets to strive for and a tangible sense of accomplishment upon reaching milestones. This, in turn, encourages sustained effort and commitment from your virtual team

Related read: Success Blueprint: Your Checklist to Effective Virtual Teamwork

How to Set Clear Goals and Performance Expectations

Now that we understand why clarity is vital, let’s explore how to put it into practice:

Collaborative Goal Setting: Involve your team in setting goals. When team members have a say in their objectives, they’re more likely to feel ownership and commitment.

SMART Goals: Use the SMART criteria – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound – to create goals that are clear and actionable. For example, instead of a vague goal like “Increase sales,” opt for “Increase monthly sales by 10% in Q4.”

Regular Communication: Maintain open channels of communication to discuss and refine goals as needed. Regular check-ins and updates help ensure everyone stays on the same page.

Performance Metrics: Define specific KPIs that align with each goal. For instance, if the goal is to improve customer satisfaction, the KPI could be “Maintain a customer satisfaction score of 90% or higher.”

Document Everything: Write down the goals, expectations, and KPIs. Share them with the team and keep them easily accessible for reference.

Feedback Loop: Establish a feedback process where team members can discuss their progress, challenges, and achievements. This helps course-correct if necessary and reinforces the importance of clarity.

By setting clear goals and performance expectations with specific KPIs, you provide your virtual team with a roadmap for success. 

It’s like giving them the coordinates they need to navigate the journey effectively. With this tip in mind, you’ll find your team better equipped to meet and exceed expectations, no matter where they’re working from.

Talk with each other to establish strong communication and give constructive feedback

Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom

In the world of virtual team management, communication is like the heartbeat of your operations – it keeps everything flowing smoothly. 

But it’s not just about chatting for the sake of it; it’s about fostering meaningful connections, sharing ideas, and providing constructive feedback. 

Providing constructive feedback, on the other hand, is like a compass; it points you in the right direction for improvement. In a virtual team, this is an invaluable tool for individual and collective growth. 

In our experience, constructive feedback and meetings often with the team invite continuous improvement towards growth, fuel our Champions and Heroes’ motivation to excel, and ignite better collaboration between each other.

Case Study: Gay’s Story

With almost 10 years in the virtual assistant industry, Gay has had various experiences working with different clients and agencies in the market. 

In this interview, she shares about her journey with TGH, from the onboarding process, mission, vision, culture, and the training she underwent with us; and how it contributed to her personal progress and development. 

She shares how the organisation at TGH from having a pod leader and both a Client Success Hero and Champion Success Hero helped her feel valued, seen, and appreciated, thus leveraging her quality of work and sense of self-worth.

Watch her full story here! 

Explore software and tools for virtual performance management

Photo by Julia Cameron.

Next tip is all about the right software and tools!

They not only make your life easier but also empower your team to perform at their best, no matter where they are in the world. 

These tools help to streamline processes, making tasks like goal setting, tracking, and feedback easier to manage.

What we love about these tools is that they offer analytics and reporting features, giving you valuable insights into your team’s performance trends!

But it’s not really about micromanaging your team – it’s all about the collaborative work and success you and your team can do, bridging the gap created by physical distance.

You can use  Asana, Trello, Monday.com, Microsoft Teams, ClickUp, or Slack.

Do your research about which CRM you’d like to use in your virtual team, considering your team’s size, goals, and budget. 

Regardless of whichever tool you decide to use, the same principle applies: your team’s collaborative efforts are properly tracked, organised, and succeeded altogether.

Give recognitions and rewards

Photo by Matilda Wormwood

Let’s talk about the power of recognition and rewards. 

Who doesn’t appreciate a pat on the back or a heartfelt “thank you” for a job well done, right? 

When it comes to virtual team management, recognizing and rewarding your team members is especially important. 

It’s not just about boosting morale; it’s about fostering a culture of appreciation and motivation in your team culture.

How to Give Recognition and Rewards Virtually

Unsure how to do it in a virtual setting? We understand!

You might not be sharing an office space, but there are many ways to give recognition and rewards to your virtual team.

Here are some suggestions we’ve got for you: 

Praise in Public: Use team meetings or communication channels to publicly acknowledge accomplishments. It not only boosts the recipient’s morale but also inspires others. If you can, give them their “shining moments” on your business’ social media page!

Personalized Thank You Notes: Send personal messages expressing gratitude. Tailor them to the individual and specify what you appreciate about their work.

Virtual Awards: Create virtual awards or badges that team members can display on their profiles or email signatures. It adds a touch of fun to recognition.

Surprise Perks: Surprise your team with small tokens of appreciation, like e-gift cards, snacks, or branded merchandise, delivered to their doorsteps. Trust us, it’s an instant battery recharge!

Peer Recognition: Encourage team members to recognize each other’s contributions. Peer-to-peer recognition can be particularly meaningful.

Performance-Based Bonuses: Who wouldn’t want this? Try to implement performance-based bonuses or incentives to reward outstanding achievements.

Professional Development: Offer opportunities for professional development or additional responsibilities as a form of recognition.

By incorporating recognition and rewards into your virtual team management strategy, you create a more vibrant and motivated team. 

Remember to celebrate wins, show your appreciation, and watch your virtual team flourish with enthusiasm and dedication!

Charting Your Course to Virtual Team Success

Photo by Matilda Wormwood

So, there you go, virtual team captains! 

We’ve covered some fantastic tips that can turn the sometimes turbulent waters of virtual team management into a smooth sailing adventure. 

From befriending your team to setting clear goals, embracing tools, fostering communication, and recognizing achievements, you’ve got the key ingredients to create a winning formula.

But wait, if you’re still feeling a bit lost in maneuvering your virtual ship, fear not! We’ve got something special just for you. 🎉

Introducing the Buyers Agency Growth Map—your treasure map to navigating the virtual team seas. 

This free guide will help you plot a course to success, helping you to navigate your buyers agency business, and arming you with the right business strategy for growth.

Grab your free copy of the Buyers Agency Growth Map today and set sail towards smoother seas and greater success with your virtual team. The adventure awaits!

Note: Portions of this article were generated with the assistance of AI.

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