Four Uncommon Ways To Grow Your Business

Four Uncommon Ways To Grow Your Business

(NUI) - A company's success is a combination of the success of its individuals, according to Sunny Kobe Cook, author of "Common Things Uncommon Ways."

Cook began her career as a secretary, moved into sales and ultimately started her own mattress retail business. As founder of Sleep Country USA, she was named Inc. Magazine's Northwest Entrepreneur of the Year. She was featured on the cover of Washington CEO magazine when her company was the first retailer to ever be recognized as "Best Place to Work."

Her business was so successful that she sold it and retired at age 42. Now she shares the principles and practices responsible for her success with other business people. Additionally, through the Kobe Foundation, she funds grants to expand the education of the nation's youth beyond the scope of the classroom.

If you are looking for ways to build a successful business team, take these tips Cook offers in her book:

• Hire employees based on your weaknesses. Do this each time you consider hiring a new person and you will hire not only the right person for the job but also the right person to help your company grow to the next level. If you continually hire to fill your weaknesses, you will find it easier to delegate. You'll readily hand over the tasks and responsibilities you know can be handled more effectively by someone else.
• Understand what really motivates employees. Recognition, a sense of contribution and a sense of belonging help create loyal employees who naturally deliver great customer service. Find ways to catch employees doing things right, then recognize them for it.
• Make perception a reality. Employees deliver service equal to how they perceive themselves and their role in their organization. For example, instead of giving delivery people toolboxes, give them briefcases and business cards. As a result, rather than viewing themselves as manual laborers, they take on the attitude of delivery professionals who are proud to work for your company.
• Create a fun working environment. Healthy and fun work environments improve productivity while reducing absenteeism as well as employee turnover. Recognize employees by making certificates, creating whimsical posters, circulating greeting cards or tying colorful balloons to employees' chairs. Don't forget to display recognition publically - from company newsletters to the Web site to a "Good News" board in the office entrance.

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