In recent years, resilience has become essential for thriving in both personal and professional realms. In today’s episode of The Small Business Show, we’re diving deeper into its role in the workplace based on Simon T. Bailey’s State of Working America Report and 11th book, Resilience@Work—How to Coach Yourself Into a Thriving Future.
Key Takeaways
1. Simon T. Bailey identifies four personality archetypes—Hurry, Worry, Ready, and Steady—that shape how individuals tackle challenges. Small business owners can use these insights to better understand their team’s behavior under pressure, helping to foster a more resilient and adaptable work environment.
2. Bailey’s research shows that 55% of Americans would take a lower-paying job to work for a leader who taps into their “brilliance”—which includes creativity, intelligence, and confidence. For small business leaders, cultivating an atmosphere that encourages personal growth can lead to higher employee engagement and productivity, driving the company forward without the need for constant oversight.
3. Bailey advises small businesses to transform their onboarding process by “launching” new hires, not just integrating them. Scheduling regular check-ins every 90 days ensures alignment with the company’s goals and vision, helping to reduce turnover and boost long-term commitment from employees.
4. Transparency is key, especially during challenging financial periods. Bailey suggests that small business owners share financial updates with their teams, fostering a sense of shared ownership and collaboration in overcoming difficulties. This openness can strengthen team bonds and encourage creative problem-solving.
5. Bailey emphasizes the power of personal connection in increasing employee loyalty. Small businesses can enhance this by celebrating individual milestones, offering personalized recognition, and maintaining informal check-ins to ensure remote employees feel valued and part of the broader mission.
"Brilliance is defined as intelligence, confidence, and creativity. If you unlock that, your employees will go the extra mile automatically." – Simon T. Bailey.
