In reviewing an upcoming book that I'm writing based on these blog posts, a friend and fellow business owner said, “I read the book.  Daily huddles, recognition programs, owner’s retreats . . . how do you find the time?” The answer may seem ironic.  These systems and programs save—not take—time.  For example:

• Daily huddles ensure the leadership team is talking once a day. This standing meeting allows all of us throughout the day to get our work done. During the day, whether it’s an employee problem or a new customer win, the standing meeting keeps us all in the loop without interrupting one another during the day.
• Other areas, such as employee-focused recognition systems or weekly leadership lunches, allow us to stay connected, give people the praise they deserve, and ultimately increase employee retention. If they don’t seem worth the time, ask yourself, what’s the cost of replacing an employee?
• When implementing ideas, walk before you run. Implement the ideas one by one. Start with whatever items you think will have the biggest impact. Remember, by the yard it’s hard, by the inch it’s a cinch.

Tom’s Takeaway:  Established, routinely executed systems save time, reduce surprises, and increase employee retention. Implement ideas one at a time.