How to Create Accountable Leaders

Finding and retaining qualified employees is one of the irrigation industry’s greatest challenges. Current labor shortages and supply chain issues only add to the difficulty. So how do you not only track down the best employees, but also set your team up for success in the months and years to come? It all comes down to communication and taking advantage of proper training tools to expand your crews, while building accountable leaders that will help take your company to the next level. SiteOne® Landscape Supply is here to navigate the path, offering an exclusive combination of products, services and partnership to grow your irrigation business.

How to Build and Manage a Reliable Team

When it comes to growing your business, hiring the best candidates for the job is just the beginning. To ensure future success and create a trustworthy team, here are a few management tips to keep in mind: 

Establish Accountability

• Ensure your team knows just how important it is to be responsible and reliable, a vital component to keeping your business on track — especially during the busy season. Demonstration through leadership, gaining commitment from your employees and being open to feedback and problem solving are a few ways to lay the groundwork. 
• While having enough workers to complete jobs is important, it is equally important to concentrate on filling key leadership positions and retaining accountable team members in management.

Communicate Company Values

• Your company’s values should serve as a guide to decision-making across the workforce.
• Make sure employees understand company values and how they translate to behaviors in their specific roles.
• Post the list of ideals in prominent areas, like break rooms, to reinforce importance.
• Develop an ongoing recognition system and acknowledge an employee for their commitment to implementing the principles.

Set High Expectations From the Start

• It’s important to be clear and direct when communicating overall expectations and acceptable workflows, processes and performance standards. 
• When individuals feel accountable to others, they are more likely to meet or exceed work expectations and contribute better overall results to the business.

Build a Strong Foundation with Proper Training

• To make sure your team is up to date on the latest irrigation tools and tips, begin with an irrigation systems overview. 
• Once the basics are mastered, help them identify opportunities to grow their skills.

You’re in Control, and We’re Here to Help

Further employee education by taking advantage of SiteOne’s unique training opportunities through SiteOne University, which provides the training and knowledge to take your company to the next level, and gives you a competitive edge in your market. These hands-on irrigation product and service training and special supplier partnerships are valuable tools for the professional development of irrigation professionals. 

SiteOne also works with organizations like The Grow Group to offer customers management training specifically for irrigation crews. See all upcoming events and networking opportunities available through SiteOne in your area at SiteOne.com/Events. 

With so many resources and training opportunities right at your fingertips, there’s no reason to hold back from expanding your team and setting your business up for success — and SiteOne is here to help along the way.