Creating the Shift

The Shift, by Doc McIntyre

We often advance in organizations because we’re great at getting sh!t done personally.

But there comes a time when we need to shift our focus to building systems so that shit gets done by lots of other people in an effective, consistent way.

Great organizations have leaders who are exceptional system builders.

When I say systems, I mean:

• Training and development systems

• Operational systems

• Performance measurement systems

• Feedback and coaching systems

• Communication systems

• Continuous improvement systems

• Project tracking systems

• Back-office systems

Here’s a litmus test for aspiring system builders:

If you left your job for a week, would the work continue to get done and decisions still be made? Or would everything pile up, waiting for you to return?

Creating the Shift, by Beau Groover

About 10 years ago, I started my coaching firm as a one-man army. I was the bookkeeper, the business development guy, the marketing guy, the practitioner— and, and, and. As the business grew, it became clear that I couldn’t do everything myself. I had to make the shift and find capable, competent people who could take things off my plate, allowing me to focus on what I do best.

To do this, I first had to gain CLARITY (the first step to GSD) on what was most needed. I defined the requirements, the problem it solved, and how success would be measured.

Next, I had to find the right person who could bring TEAMWORK (the second step of GSD) and collaborate with me to solve challenges effectively.

After almost 10 years, we’re still refining our systems. However, we’re all working toward the point where the system operates smoothly—without us.

Build your process so it runs without you.

Love these leadership nuggets? If so, check out Doc's book, Shipload of Leadership Nuggets, here!

The Effective Syndicate is a family of brands dedicated to supporting U.S. manufacturing by addressing the industry's unique challenges:

• The Effective Syndicate: Delivering expert consulting services in Lean Six Sigma, leadership development, and operational improvement to help manufacturing companies achieve sustainable growth and operational excellence.

• TES Recruiting: Connecting manufacturing companies with top-tier talent, from the shop floor to the C-suite.

• Swiftemp: Providing fast, reliable staffing solutions, specializing in temporary-to-hire roles for manufacturing and metal fabrication.

• GSD Manager Training: Empowering managers with practical, no-nonsense training to lead confidently, enhance productivity, and build stronger teams.

Together, we help U.S. manufacturing businesses thrive. Want to learn more? Check out our website! www.tes.run