Here are the 9 principles of doing business from Barclay Simpson, the founder of Simpson Strong-Tie company. Simpson is the leader in its field and this great company is built based on these invaluable principles from Barclay.
9 PRINCIPLES
Principle #1
The focus, the obsession, is on customers and users.
We need to be constantly reminded that none of us has a job without customers. You want to build trust with your customers. You want to get to know them. Show interest in their lives, make them feel important and then you may find out what they get interested in you and your products much more than they would if you just fill an order. No matter what your position in the company, it is vital that you keep the customers and users in mind whether you have direct contact or not. What do they need from you? How can you make their jobs easier? How can you improve their lives?
Principle #2
The view is long range; people never sacrifice tomorrow for the sake of today
Good business leaders focus on the long-term outcomes, not short-term gains. You should think of your role in the company as being a long-term investor, not a day trader. This is a rarity in business these days. Long-term relationships are built on trust and respect and this applies to your everyday job. Show respect and build trust in everything you do with your customers, users and with your fellow employees. Always be straightforward, don’t just tell people what they want to hear, tell it like it is.
Principle #3
The company makes quality products that contribute to the quality of life in a significant way
Company can only be temporarily successful without a quality product. The people in our company can feel proud of what our products can do, and each and every person in the company plays a role in ensuring that our products meet high standard. It is important to remember that the work you do makes a difference.
Principle #4
The company is the leader in its core business.
Being a leader in anything attracts the best people and success depends on your people. If you are a winner, it’s in your gut that you want to be part of the best that is we’re building a brand comes in. When your brand is a leader, people will by your product at the same price or more and will not accept a substitute.
Principle #5
The company dignifies the contribution of every individual at every level.
Everybody in the company is important, everybody. That’s absolutely crucial and so must do everything you can to make people feel that they’re valued. Our company culture says that everyone gets recognized for their contribution no matter the role. There are no big shots, no parking places. It’s always been first names. No Mr. or Ms., you’re Joe or Carol or Peter, Bark. We’re all working together toward the same goal. We rely on each other to be successful, we show each other respect.
Principle #6
People are excited about their jobs and the possibilities for growth.
When people joint our company, they don’t come for a bus stop. This is a career. When we hire someone, they find out when the job above them becomes available. They’ve got a shot at it. People work harder and smarter when they are excited about their jobs. A great company gives people an atmosphere where they are happy to come to work in the morning and that may not happen every day, but in general, they have confidence in their future with the company where they know their hard work will be recognized. People are encouraged to grow to seek out the positive in every day challenges and find new opportunities contribute to the company’s success. If you want someone to really put out the effort, it should be rewarded. It’s a direct connection. Everybody in the company can make more money if the company makes more money.
Principle #7
Innovation and creativity are encouraged; success is seldom achieved without taking risks.
Great companies are built on creative ideas from talented people. You have to take risks. Sure, we all make mistakes along the way. I certainly have and if you’re really going to be innovative you’re going to make mistakes. Don’t become stagnant in your job. Be curious. Don’t play it safe. Take risks. Be creative and you ‘ll inspire yourself and others to try something new.
Principle #8
The company feels an obligation to the system and the country that spawned it, as well as to humanity in general.
We’re also fortunate. No matter what each of our personal situation is, we know that there are many others in this world who will never have the opportunities we’ve had. It is our responsibilities to reach out in whatever manner we can to support others. We’re all connected in someway and are all parts of a greater community. It’s important to make what impact you can. You may not have the financial means that others might have, but whatever you can do, do it. Look for small ways to give back everyday. Help out your neighbor, make time for others, do what you can.
Principle #9
The company is a demanding but fun place to work, where people take their responsibilities, but not themselves, seriously.
These successful takes hard work, but getting there can be fun if you let it be. Your attitude is what matter. This is one rule I try to live by, don’t take yourself too seriously or think you’re too important. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to be important and do important things, just don’t let your ego get in the way. Find something that has meaning that you can do something about and forget about the other stuff where you can’t. Have fun and be productive. Great companies are built with great people. I got into this business, I decided that I’m no genius, so I need to hire the very best people and they make the company the kind of place where they don’t want to go anywhere else. They want to stay here and help build it. I have never been proud of and enthusiastic about this company and its future than I am today. I’m convinced that we have many many great years ahead of us. Unlike the vast majority of companies these days, your company is not for sale and that’s at any price I expect the company to be around ofr at least a hundred more years. Even though it is possible, I might not be you.
Source: nhutly
