7 Ways to Plan a Smooth Business Succession

Published on: 25 March 2019 Last Updated on: 27 November 2021
Business Succession

Business Succession planning is one of the important levels of strategic planning that gives you an opportunity to formulate a plan on how your business is expected to perform after your tenure in leadership.

Business Succession can make things more effective and wise in all aspects. Effective succession planning is highly advantageous as it gives you an opportunity to set in place mechanisms that ensure operational efficiency and transfer of leadership where necessary.

When undertaking succession planning, emphasis should be put on ensuring that every aspect of business leadership is handled as comprehensively as possible.

Whereas business owners understand the importance of performing succession planning, few put in place the necessary measures. Here are 7 key tips to consider when planning for smooth business succession.

Initiate the planning process early:

To be thorough and comprehensive in your succession planning, you need to ensure that you start planning as early as possible.

Whereas experts do not have a recommendation on the definite duration of time by when you should start succession planning before implementation, it is generally agreed upon that early planning gives you sufficient time to come up with a comprehensive plan.

Starting as early as 10 years before effecting the plan gives you sufficient time to ensure that everyone who is involved is sufficiently prepared to take over.

This also eliminates the rush that may set in in the event of a delayed succession planning process. Such delays may lead to unprecedented and unwanted hurried succession which puts the business’s future in jeopardy.

Nurture the prospected leaders:

When undertaking succession planning, especially in a family business, emphasis should be made on nurturing continuity in leadership. This ensures that once you leave as the top manager, your junior takes your place and steers the company forward. When performing succession planning, you should have that in mind and therefore focus on nurturing and developing the prospective leaders.

Leader development and nurturing should focus on, among other things, bringing the best out of the qualities you desire to see in them. This may be done in a gradual process such as delegating responsibilities and evaluating the prospected leader’s ability to perform with the integrity and precision demanded for in a top business manager.

Have an open-minded approach:

To be thorough and effective in succession planning, you need to avoid bias as much as possible. In a family business or a business where leadership succession is hierarchical, maintaining an open mind can be quite hard, especially since the second in command is the most likely person to inherit your leadership. To avoid such bias, you should have an open mind in regards to potential candidates who can take over from you after you leave office.

When looking for an appropriate leader to take after you, you may want to give a thought of every potential candidate available within the business. This gives you an opportunity to extend your options as wide as possible. It also ensures that you don’t miss potential employees whose skills, competencies, and experiences may come in handy in taking over from you.

Exposed potential candidates to training:

Training is quite crucial as it ensures that prospecting leaders within your business get an opportunity to advance their skills.

In this regard, leaders that you think are capable of leading your organization in one way or another should be appropriately identified and marked for progressive training and development.

Such training should be focused on anticipated areas within your business that are of importance for the employees to take over once you leave.

Succession training is also crucial and should be exposed to all workers who show an outstanding level of managerial skills. The well-trained workers get to be prepared for advanced leadership positions that may be created after you leave office.

In some cases, promoting your immediate deputy in the hierarchy leads to vacant positions down the business administration structure. The well-trained candidates, once promoted, would be able to fill those positions effectively.

Dry-run your plan:

When planning for a smooth succession in your business, it is highly advisable to ensure that you, on several occasions, do a dry run of your succession plan.

Dry running a succession plan gives you an opportunity to evaluate how potent your plan is in terms of meeting certain expectations. The dry running process does not have to be official and should be preferably done without informing the employees involved.

This can be done by momentarily leaving your office for official vacation or even other official duties for a considerable amount of time such as between a few weeks to a month. The duration of absence gives you an opportunity to test how suited your prospected leaders are in terms of filling the void created by your absence.

Do your final plan in writing:

After concluding and making adjustments on your succession plan for your business, you should endeavor to put the final plan in writing.

To be effective and thorough, you should consider engaging qualified, experienced, and reputable succession planning legal professionals such as Boss Lawyers in Australia.

The lawyers, in such a case, help you to prepare the necessary documents including succession policies, how the current generation of employees will hand over to future generations, as well as how to resolve any arising disputes thereof.

The exit strategy created from a legal perspective ensures that everyone within the business is bound while also creating a viable atmosphere for business continuity and harmony among the workers.

Make your wishes known:

Lastly, after every element of business succession planning has been conducted, it is crucial to bring everyone on board the plan to ensure that they are well aware of the strategic direction that the business is taking.

You should, preferably, convene a meeting with everyone in the business as well as your business’s key customers.

In the business meeting, you should outline what your wish is and reveal any other pertinent information that was not captured within the succession legal framework.

You may also use the platform to ensure that any questions or concerns that your workers may have are appropriately handled in a plenary session.

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Social Entrepreneurship

Social Entrepreneurship – Entrepreneurship Strategies And Many More!

We are living in a world where becoming an entrepreneur is pretty common, and launching your own venture is perhaps more ordinary than we usually assume it to be! So naturally, when concepts of entrepreneurship, investment portfolios, and bootstrapped startups are ruling the business world, it acts as a catalyst for relatively more intrinsic concepts to come up. One such concept is that of social entrepreneurship, something we all must have heard somewhere - from Ted Talks to office meetings, you must have come across this term. Yes, you know what entrepreneurship means or, for that matter, what socials mean. But when the two terms are put together, what does it imply? Keep reading to find out more. What Is Social Entrepreneurship? Let’s Find Out! So what is social entrepreneurship, and who’s a social entrepreneur? Social entrepreneurs are people who pursue novel applications which has the potential for solving problems that are community-based. These individuals are people who want to take the risk and put in the effort for creating the right changes in society through positive initiatives. Social entrepreneurship is based on the idea of finding the road to connecting with the purpose of your life, helping other people find their purpose in life, and ultimately making the right difference in this world. In addition, these entrepreneurs implement several ethical purposes like conscious consumerism, social responsibility in corporates, and impact harvesting. Key Understanding: Social entrepreneurs aim to start businesses for a greater good and not to earn profits. Social entrepreneurs invest in ventures that are often environmental-friendly or philanthropic or even deal with underprivileged communities. Social entrepreneurship is a trend that’s constantly growing, accompanied by SRI (Socially Responsible Investing) and ESG (Environmental Social & Governance Investing). Understanding Social Entrepreneurs:  The social entrepreneurship definition points out how social entrepreneurs are not inspired by the whole profit-earning motive of running a business. In fact, these individuals are different from ordinary entrepreneurs who are motivated by profit-earning abilities and have no mandatory intention of leaving a positive impact on the society around them. Notable economist Adam Smith, in his well-known book, The Wealth of Nations, commented, in this context, “It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own self-interest.” What Smith wanted to point out was that when people go after their best interests, there is an automatic inclination toward making decisions that usually benefit others. For instance, a florist wants to earn a livelihood for supporting her family. In order to accomplish the same, the florist will produce products that help thousands of people. Read More: How To Become An Entrepreneur? Social Entrepreneurs And Their Goals: Social entrepreneurship seeks to address imbalances such as determining all root causes of major social issues, the social stigmas associated with being part of any community, and the like. The primary goal of social entrepreneurs is to not earn profits. Rather, these entrepreneurs aim towards implementing vast improvements in the society around them. Naturally, social entrepreneurs must be financially savvy for succeeding in their causes. This is where both the ESG and SRI forms of investing make an appearance to save the day. Strategies And Entrepreneurial Ventures: How To Become A Successful Social Entrepreneur? In case you wanted us to define social entrepreneurship, then we are guessing you have understood that part. But what’s the point of finding out the definition if you want to become a social entrepreneur. Moreover, it’s only natural if you are still here, it means that you are curious about the strategies relevant to social entrepreneurship. So without wasting any further time, let’s check out a few effective strategies relevant to social entrepreneurship. Think About The Future Instead Of Being Stuck In The Past The past can be tempting. You can spend days dwelling in the past, reminiscing about social entrepreneurship ideas that made so much sense back. Instead, prioritize the future - become future-oriented in setting your goals. If you are not forward-thinking with your vision, then how will you evolve as an entrepreneur. Secondly, the world we live in is constantly evolving, and if you don’t keep up, how will you make a difference that matters? Be curious and attentive. Observe everything that goes around. Social and creative entrepreneurs are intuitive about future trends and needs. Commit To Making A Difference: The world we live in is always suffering from exploitation and inequality in terms of the availability of opportunities and resources. If you are not committed to making a difference, then are you even doing anything? The whole purpose of social entrepreneurs is to make a difference. These entrepreneurs are always creative in their approach and staunch dedication to creating a positive impact with their work. You May Like To Read This: Small Business Entrepreneurship – Small Business, Strategies And Many More! Did you know that the movement of social entrepreneurship has evolved to include methods and tools for creating an impact and making a difference. If you are interested, then you must check it out. Pursue Opportunities Not Products Or People Peter Drucker is an Austrian-American economist, often known as ‘the father of modern management’ who had pointed out in the past how the catalyst for innovative developments has nothing to do with finding new people or products. Rather, it lies in need to transform the environment. You can either choose to pursue opportunities that matter or run after employees who will bring you profits or, even worse, new products. All the difference lies in your ability to make the right choice. Social entrepreneurship companies around the world followed what Mahatma Gandhi said ages ago, ‘Be the change you want to see in the world.’ You will be able to see and even opt for the opportunities precisely at the right place, only if you want to do so. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. What Are The Strategies Of Social Enterprises? The strategies of social enterprises are as follows.1. Focus on the future2. Try to make a difference3. Purse opportunities 2. What Are The 4 Types Of Social Entrepreneurs? The four types of social entrepreneurs are as follows.1. Community Entrepreneur2. Non-Profit Entrepreneur3. Transformational Entrepreneur4. Global Entrepreneur 3. What Are The 5 Strategies Of Entrepreneurs? The 5 strategies of entrepreneurs are as follows.1. Set initial goals2. Create a vision3. Network around4. Keep learning5. Don’t quit 4. What Are The 5 Characteristics Of Social Entrepreneurship? The five characteristics of social entrepreneurship are as follows.1. Deep empathy2. Innovation3. Systemic planning4. Sustainable approach5. Changemakers Logging Out… The world is now filled with social entrepreneurship examples, and if it interests you, then what are you doing, lurking behind blogs, when you can start your venture! Time’s ticking - why wait when you can invest time, money, and efforts in making a difference for a change? Don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on social entrepreneurship in the comments below. Read More: Top 9 Reasons Your Sales Training Isn’t WorkingHow Many Types Of Entrepreneurs Are There In 2022?10 Must Have Marketing Tools To Add In Small Business Growth Strategies!

READ MOREDetails
Digital signage

Using Digital Signage to Improve Your Business

Digital signage is making a huge impact in the business world today. From outdoor LED neon signs to indoor menu boards, the digital signage industry is changing the way companies connect with customers. Businesses that utilize digital signs are able to engage with their audiences in more meaningful and memorable ways. Having digital led signage shows you are innovative, ahead of the curve, and interested in connecting with millennial customers. It invites your guests to fully immerse themselves in the interactive experience with your brand. The best part is that digital signs are versatile—there are multiple ways to use them to your company’s advantage, and how you incorporate them will largely depend on your brand identity. Let’s examine a few ways that businesses are using custom LED signs to improve the way they interact with customers. Using Digital Signage to Improve Your Business: 1. Digital Menu Boards: If your business utilizes a menu of items for purchase or consumption, a digital menu board could be a valuable addition. Digital menu boards use LED sign technology to dazzle your customers with bright, gorgeous colors and vivid images that pique their appetites. They are easy to update, making seasonal item rotations easy and cost-efficient. They also add a sense of freshness to a guest’s encounter with your brand. While printed menu boards remain static and immovable, digital menu boards allow constant refreshing of your space with minimal cost. What does the future hold? Some companies are exploring ways to customize users’ visits by adapting menu boards to their preferences and local or seasonal events in the area. Digital kiosks directly at the table are becoming more commonplace, allowing guests more control over their dining experience. Also, having a live screen during the ordering process can eliminate mistakes if guests notice their order isn't listed correctly. In the end, all of these things merge to enable you to run a more efficient business with happier, more satisfied customers. 2. Connect Via Social Media: Many businesses these days are using in-house digital displays to share what guests on social media channels are posting about them. This is a fantastic way to engage your audience, especially the younger demographic. Better yet, all of this is user-generated content, which takes the burden off you. It enhances the customer experience and really makes them feel like part of your brand. It also offers you free viral marketing as customers become excited about the possibility of seeing themselves on the board, and it gives them a chance to see what other people are saying about your brand in real-time. Read also: Social Media Marketing Role In Technology To encourage participation, make sure you include a call-to-action that will flash on the screen, inviting users to share their thoughts. You could even add an incentive, such as the chance to win a free treat in a random drawing. People love to win, and they’re more invested in businesses when they feel like they’re an integral part of the brand. 3. The Various Uses of Digital Displays: Interactive Digital signage offers a valuable way to convey information in a variety of places. It can be used to transmit valuable information or health and safety notices. Companies can use them internally to motivate employees by showcasing company values or exciting news about business successes. Movie theaters use them to show their constantly updating array of showtimes. And they can help save lives. Healthcare facilities use them to assist patients, both with wayfinding signs and with digital displays in rooms and hallways that provide relevant information about their visit. The point is that anyone can find ways to integrate digital signs and displays into their market; it's just a matter of figuring out how they can best benefit your brand. However, your business can use digital signage, simply having it is the first step toward future innovation. A study by local business marketer Yodle shows that while consumers prefer supporting local brands, they also expect them to be digitally-savvy. And what better way to set yourself apart than being at the forefront of the digital revolution? Read Also: How Continuous Improvement Can Benefit Your Business 5 Intelligent Sources To Boost Business Strategies All Over The World Why Email Marketing Is The BEST Digital Marketing Outreach In Singapore Start-Up Business Management: How To Reduce Risk And Guarantee Success

READ MOREDetails
company employee

Ways to take the employee appreciation to next level in your company

There are countless small things that can be done to show your employees that they are appreciated. Setting your company apart from the next starts with the work ethic and loyalty of your employees. Hard-working and motivated employees are very productive. And as well all know, increased productivity leads to an increase in revenue over time. Employees flock to companies with reputations of a good work environment and employee appreciation. The best attracts the best if your employees are treated like the best that is how they will perform. Employee appreciation reigns supreme in the realm of productivity and its time for companies to step it up. Here are some ways to take the employee appreciation to the next level. Flexible Schedules : When your team members are willing to go the extra mile for their colleagues time and time again, it is important to let them know that it does not go unnoticed. A really positive way to encourage employees to put forth their best work is allowing flexible schedules. Acknowledging the difficulty of orchestrating all of the components of life along with work is a great way to relieve some stress and recognize ambitious employees. A flexible schedule is not the same as allowing the employees to control every aspect of their schedule. However, it is a step above having employee schedules being completely dictated by the company. Having slight aspects of flexibility when team members have something come up can go a long way. When employees feel respected as people with busy lives outside of work, they will be far more motivated to go above and beyond in the office. Communication : Communicating with your team and making an effort to understand them is one of the most vital steps on the road to success. Society has created a group of professionals who communicate largely through email and text messaging. While these communication mediums are wonderful and have bridged the communications gap in many ways, a lot of sincerity and authenticity can be lost when a message is typed instead of spoken. Take time to communicate face-to-face with your team members as often as you can. Not only encourage them to do well but get to know them as people. When teams form strong connections their ability to work together increases exponentially.  If you find yourself wondering what the best way to show your appreciation to a particularly hard-working employee, communicate with them. Ask them the ways in which they would like to be recognized for their hard work. Not only will this method of appreciation be a sure-fire way to show the employee how well they are doing, but they will feel respected and valued for being given the opportunity to choose their appreciation method. Team Retreats : Whether a team is treated to a simple luncheon or a weekend spent away from the office with their toes in the sand, they will return feeling revitalized, motivated and appreciated. Having small goals like retreats to work towards boosts overall happiness within the company as well as work ethic. It is no secret that working becomes easier when there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Team retreats can also be a great way to build stronger relationships among colleagues. It is important for employees to feel connected to the company as a whole and appreciated by their peers. Feeling appreciated by everyone you work with and not just the boss can really boost employee morale and make productivity soar.  Bonuses : Bonuses are no new-fangled recognition tactic. Employees have been receiving holiday bonuses and such for years. But, as they say, if it’s not broken don’t fix it. Bonuses are still a flawless way to show your employees they are valuable to the company. Bonuses can be given in the name of hard work. When an employee does exemplary work that goes beyond their job description- they should be rewarded for that. If employees know the extra work they are doing is noticed and, most important, appreciated, they are going to be so much more willing to continue with that standard of work.  Advanced Training Seminars : Employees that are capable are confident. In any given profession there is always room to improve and there are always new skills to master. By offering additional training throughout your employees’ career you show them that the skills and resources that they possess are valuable to the company. It is in your best interest to hone those skills and show your employees that their confidence and their performance are important to the company. Fostering growth and improvement among your employees is one of the easiest ways to show appreciation. Furthermore, training will greatly benefit the company as a whole by producing able and motivated employees. Not every sign of appreciation has to be huge; there are countless small gestures you can make as well. However, companies will benefit greatly by really bringing their employee appreciation up to the next level. Read Also : Finding The Right Moving Company Fred Loya Insurance Company Role Of Messaging Apps In Enhancing A Company’s Market Prospects Guide To Choose An Authentic Plumber Service Company

READ MOREDetails