Managing business with Intelligence or Intelli-sense

Intelligence is the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills. Our natural ability to be able to apply what we have learned or a skill that we have acquired.

Interesting to note, is that Intelligence is not necessarily our ability to learn, but more about how to apply what we have learned. It is an important skill for any person to have, the application of knowledge.

Most businesses are relying on employees to produce, manufacture or deliver services they offer. So, essentially business owners are in the business of managing people that will help them to deliver their product or service. What do we need as people managers?

• Patience
• Good Communication Skills
• Ability to relate
• Flexibility, and
• Trust

In our world as a management consultancy firm, that actively engage with business owners and senior management, we often note that in terms of people management skills most of these people react on instinct or intuition – and in most instances is self-taught people managers. Some had the privilege to be working under good mentors – other not so.

One thing that I have noticed over the years is that managing people relies a lot on our senses. In being an Intelli-Sense’itive manager will have huge benefits to your business. Look at the 5 senses below and how we can apply them:

Taste – In a book ‘The Power of Moments’ – written by Chip and Dan Heath – they describe the benefits and processes that involves a dedicated effort to create moments in personal or business life. Essentially creating those opportunities to taste success. Nothing feels better than the taste of victory, achievement, or success. Be intentional when managing your staff to create moments where they can taste success. Celebrate small victories and challenge staff to get out of their comfort zones and accept challenges.

See – “The eyes are useless when the mind is blind”. Often one chooses to ignore, or not to see. Business owners, managers, and employees to allow themselves to see – but also then have the freedom to respond. Both positive and negative. The job satisfaction when systems in business allows for a reporting mechanism that respond to sight. It helps keeping business accountable, but also help to grow people and business. Be honest and if what we see is not in line with our values – respond. Correct and re-evaluate. The sense of sight may also benefit business to look at opportunities, to boost staff but also to grow business.

Listen – Employees or customers do not always tell us what they want – but often will tell us what is wrong. We need to be active listeners. This will benefit your business in avoiding misunderstandings. It may further lead to building relationships between management and employees. Employees feel empowered if they know they are being heard If employees have learned the skill of active listening and is able to comprehend – that may also lead to increased productivity. Even if the message you heard is negative, always give positive feedback to encourage the communication in the business.

Smell – Smell trouble. Have early warning systems in place to proactively respond to any trouble of issues that may be on its way. The skill to smell trouble before it approaches is what differentiates businesses. Those who respond proactively is one step ahead. Not all things can be calculated and not all decisions are business data driven. Very often you need to trust your gut-feeling and back out or change direction or plan when you smell trouble. How do we smell trouble?

• Trust your instinct
• Keep an eye on trends, statistics, or behavior
• Have due diligence system in place.

Touch – Never lose that personal touch. Stay faithful to your unique vision, and a brand that represents you and what you stand for. Add a personal touch to everything. Never try to please everyone, as this may compromise the real you and have a clear vision when making decisions. We have previously spoken about the importance of Business Culture. One of the benefits we identified is that a well-established culture will be your voice, advocate and first line of motivation in your organization. To truly do what you stand for. The personal touch will be delivered and lived by the staff first, and experience by customers.

So, I want to encourage you today to be Intelli-Sense’itive in your business. Do not only be cold and clinical in your day to day. Use your senses. Intelligent people are Intelli-Sense’itive when it comes to running their businesses and managing people.