As a business owner and leader, you know that you’re often wearing many hats. Your role goes beyond strategic decisions and financial goals—you are the face of your business and its values. For your people, there’s no better way to influence their performance and connection to the business than to lead by example.

For new business owners, this may feel like an added pressure amongst everything else you’ve got going on. How you set the tone today will shape your team’s performance and motivation for years to come. It’s easier to shape your business as you grow than to reinvent it after 10 years.

Show respect

Leading by example with respect strengthens your connection with the team and aligns them with core values. Inspire your team with integrity, honesty, and trust—your leadership serves as their compass, even in uncertain times.

In your onboarding pack, outline your business ethics and promote a culture of respect, communication, and collaboration for all staff. Simply meet each new team member personally and encourage your team to welcome and support them.

Build work ethic & accountability

We all want a team who is dedicated and hardworking. When you lead by example you live out the kind of work habits that you’d like to see in others. Arriving on time and tackling challenges head-on will inspire your team to do the same.

Set standards of excellence to empower your team, and respect work-life balance by avoiding emails on weekends or after hours. If you miss a communication or meeting, calmly own your mistake to encourage your staff to take responsibility for their deadlines.

Showcase communication skills daily

Communication is vital to any business’s success, but conveying the right message to customers or your team isn’t always straightforward. Understanding your personal leadership and communication style is a helpful first step (something we’ve discussed already here on the Finn Blog).

Hold regular team check-ins, lead by example with active listening, provide feedback, and involve the team in larger business discussions. Ensure your email and messaging are professional, clear, and friendly, and establish standard communication procedures, such as daily check-ins on Teams at 9:00 AM for core tasks. Even while meeting with new suppliers, ensure your presence is felt and provide quick support to your team as needed.

Leading by example is a powerful technique that inspires and motivates your team. Set the standards you want to see and live them daily to build your dream team.