Sharing Targets with Your Team: A Leadership Dilemma

As a leader, you may find yourself facing a common yet challenging question: should you share your business targets with your team? For many owners, this can be a real dilemma. On one hand, you might worry that transparency could inspire team members to branch out on their own. On the other hand, there’s the concern that revealing targets might make your team envious of the revenue you’re generating, without understanding the financial burdens of running a business.

This is a valid concern, and the dilemma is real. However, as the quote by Bill Copeland reminds us: “The trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never score.” Sharing targets with your team isn’t just about transparency; it’s about setting clear goals and empowering your team to achieve them.

Why Sharing Targets Matters

To ensure your business thrives, every team member needs to understand their role in achieving success. Without clear targets, your team cannot focus on their goals or stay motivated to achieve them. Targets provide direction and give team members something tangible to work toward, creating a sense of purpose and achievement. A focused and motivated team is more likely to deliver exceptional results for your business.

The Role of Individual Development Plans (IDPs)

To make targets meaningful and achievable, it’s essential to align them with each team member’s strengths, motivations, and career goals. This is where Individual Development Plans (IDPs) come in. IDPs connect your team’s growth to your business objectives. They allow you to evaluate performance, understand how each team member is contributing to your business, and identify what motivates them. Some team members might be driven by numbers, while others might find motivation in KPIs like rebookings, average sales, or number of products sold. By tailoring targets and commission structures, you can inspire your team to go above and beyond.

Leadership Through Goal Setting

At the end of the day, success in business is a numbers game. By helping your team achieve their goals, you’re also ensuring the success of your business. As Tony Robbins famously said, “Goals are like magnets. They'll attract the things that make them come true.” Sharing targets with your team isn’t just about hitting numbers—it’s about fostering a culture of collaboration, motivation, and achievement. When you help your team achieve their dreams, you’re also achieving yours. That’s the true sign of leadership.

In all, if you’re hesitant about sharing targets, consider this: clear goals and open communication are the foundation of a successful team. By aligning your team’s efforts with your business objectives, you’re not only driving results but also building a team that’s invested in your shared success. Embrace the power of goal setting, and watch your business thrive.