A good plan can quickly lose momentum once the meeting ends. Too many priorities, vague actions, unclear ownership and a lack of follow-up often turn sensible decisions into unfinished work. This article explains why business plans stall and how greater focus and accountability can turn intentions into progress.
People
You Cannot Recruit the Finished Product: How SMEs Can Build the Skills They Need
Many SMEs struggle to recruit people with exactly the right experience, skills and attitude. This article explains why waiting for the “finished product” can restrict growth and how businesses can build the capability they need by recruiting for potential, developing existing employees and creating clearer routes for progression.
Are you promoting potential or just performance?
Promoting a trusted employee can feel like the obvious next step. But success in one role does not always mean someone is ready for the next. This article explains how SME owners can avoid the Peter Principle by assessing potential, defining the new role clearly and supporting people as they move from operational performance into leadership.
The Three Chapters of Modern Leadership: What SME Owners Must Learn Next
After hearing Chris Evans speak in Henley-on-Thames, Nick Shanagher reflects on how leadership is changing for SME owners. From AI and team design to decision-making and personal performance, this article explores the new operating system of modern business leadership.
The Value of Words: How Documentation Strengthens a Company’s Foundations
Clear, well-managed documentation is a hidden asset for growing SMEs. This article explains how good documentation improves efficiency, strengthens product development, supports customer experience and reassures investors. It also highlights how structured document management reduces risk and helps teams operate with confidence.
“Orders Are Optional”: How SME Leaders Can Harness Generational Differences for Stronger Teams
Today’s SMEs often have four generations working together, and leaders can’t assume one style fits all. Generational differences can cause friction, but with emotional intelligence and conscious team design, they become strengths.
How SME Leaders Can Stay Resilient: Stoicism and Emotional Intelligence for Uncertain Times
Economic uncertainty can test any SME leader’s resilience. By applying lessons from Stoicism and emotional intelligence, you can stay calm, focused, and adaptable. Learn practical ways to control what matters, manage emotions, and lead your business with clarity and purpose through turbulent times.
Five Action Plans for UK SMEs to Tackle 2025 Risks with Confidence
The future holds challenges for UK SMEs, but with the right strategies, businesses can turn risks into opportunities. Learn how to upskill your workforce, build financial resilience, strengthen cybersecurity, embrace AI, and create an agile culture. These five action plans can help your SME thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Get your hiring mindset into gear
The most helpful advice I have received recently on hiring was that a new salesperson needs to generate ten times their salary to justify adding to the team. The advice came from Donald Miller at his April Business Growth Boot Camp, where he shared how he...