It is critical that as a business we have “Drive” in order to achieve the results we desire and to differentiate ourselves from the competition. We need key individuals in our business and not just our leaders to be driven to achieve the targets and goals we set ourselves. Drive needs to be measured, calculated and reviewed to the day to day needs of your business and your people. The climate and environment in which we operate will influence how driven we are, but we all need to be on the same page.

So what is drive?

Well it is “A persistence to achieve results, deliver high standards and continuously improve the way things are done.” So let’s examine four key areas in a little more detail:

1. Doing what is expected
2. Going the extra mile
3. Continuously driving performance
4. Taking entrepreneurial risk

Doing What Is Expected

We take this for granted, but are we actually doing what is expected? It would be a good starting point if we were. How do we know if we are doing what is expected, have we asked the question, do we know what is expected? This is not just with our clients but within our own business, or are we still waiting to be told? Silence is not good enough. We need to take responsibility, stay focused on the task, hit deadlines, achieve the required standards, show enthusiasm and stay safe.

Going The Extra Mile

We have heard this so many times and I am sure we believe we do this, but what does it actually mean in practice? Have we asked? If we know what is expected, then why go the extra mile, after all we are not being paid to do more are we? Well, we go the extra mile because we care and want to be the best and this will help guarantee long term sustainable success. This will also strengthen your own position in the business and lead to improved job satisfaction, persuading others to follow your example.

Continuously Driving Performance

Clients ask for this on a regular basis and most people do it but fail to capture and demonstrate it. The simple truth is, what was good enough today will not be good enough tomorrow – we have to continuously look to improve every day. Become more efficient, have a desire to innovate, encourage all our people to improve performance and measure performance against the best. Look outside your industry for the best solutions, bring in a fresh pair of eyes, and look at your own work as you would a competitor.

Taking Entrepreneurial Risk

Already, the thought of taking risk is starting to scare you as most people and business are risk averse. Do we know our business and the industry in which it works; do we understand the climate and environment in which we operate? Have you encouraged entrepreneurial ideas in your business – some blue sky thinking based on good, solid knowledge of your industry? Do not be frightened of people like this in your business, you should embrace them at all levels as they could make that big difference to your future success.