Q: I run a smallish food supplier, which I set up about 10 years ago and have made decent headway with. We seem now to have achieved a size whereby middle management are happy to challenge the culture of the business and even tell me what I should or shouldn't do. It's my business, can I not run it as I like?

A: My very brief answer to your question is yes. It's your vision, your leadership and probably your money that has got this business to its current healthy position. Better still, you have managed to recruit a team that feels comfortable enough to be able to give you their unvarnished thoughts. Well done all round, say I.

Much like the saying "customers are always right" (they're not of course), by listening carefully and reflecting on your team's input you will find there are gold nuggets that you can latch onto profitably.

As Peter Hargreaves, the entrepreneur who has taken his business from his back room to the FTSE 100 says: "all managers should have a golden rule to behave as you would wish all your employees to behave: timekeeping, cost and expense vigilance, holiday entitlement and abuse of authority are all traits that you can guarantee will be copied".


Q: You often talk about how to change jobs, building experience, networking and being in control. I have worked for my medium-sized company for more than 20 years and I still find it satisfying. Am I doing something wrong?

A: It always amuses me to see that premiership star wheeling away having scored a fine goal, kissing the badge on his shirt as he laps up the crowd's appreciation only to read that two days later he is linked to Real Madrid for an eye-watering sum of money.

Loyalty plays a huge role in business between employees and employers, between customers and suppliers, and vice versa. However, I feel there is far too often misplaced loyalty due to inertia, fear of change, lack of ambition and frequently through a lack of understanding power negotiations.

Having said all that, there is absolutely nothing wrong staying with your employer for 20 or more years if both sides feel that it's a good deal. You've enjoyed a variety of bosses and have been modestly well-rewarded. Doubtless your employer would tell me a similar tale. Result? Happiness be proud of what you've achieved.

But even after a couple of decades, be alert, stay engaged in your business, consider doing something big and different tomorrow and be aware of opportunities.

If you have a question for Sue, email her atsue@mountstevensexecutivecoaching.com.

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