In this post, you will see, what successful manufacturing leaders do from 8 am to 8 pm. We also included some other tips successful folks do before 8 am and right before bed to stay as optimized as possible, including a few productivity tools.
The Driving Forces Behind Successful Manufacturing Leaders
Success in manufacturing leadership may seem to come down to certain personality traits or instincts, but in reality these leaders are successful because they are always striving to improve upon their processes. Discover more about the daily habits of successful manufacturing leaders below.
Every successful manufacturing company needs a leader, and someone whose decisions and values make them a cut-above-the-rest. It is what these leaders do, from 8am to 8pm every day that makes the difference. After all as Eric Kimberling's analysis of 'leadership lessons' says: “The differing results of manufacturers are due to unique leadership traits of their executive teams.”
However the Global Leadership Forecast 2014/15 found that 63% of participants reported their leaders to be less than high quality or not ready for current or future challenges.
Those manufacturing leaders who are outside of that 63% have some common characteristics and always ensure that their companies:
- Develop quality products
- Emphasise buyer relationships
- Optimise efficiency
- Focus on service
The infographic below highlights some considerations successful manufacturing leaders take on board to ensure these key areas are met on a daily basis.
Check your mobile
First thing in the morning successful manufacturing leaders check their mobile to review the latest key performance indicators and business reports delivered straight from their ERP system to their device.
This gives them the chance to focus on how to make their business more efficient while still on the train or having breakfast. Already these leaders stand out from the two-thirds that make crucial decisions without the right information.
Always think automate
Successful manufacturing leaders are always looking at what can be automated. After all, according to the Annual Manufacturing Report 2015 75% of respondents have implemented some form of automation in the past five years.
Strive to drive down delivery times
Successful manufacturers know that the key to increased productivity lies in focusing on reducing delivery times as reduced delivery time equals contented clients and improved efficiency.
With over 20% of manufacturers thinking of, or having, implemented software to improve their delivery times in 2014 your business can't afford to get left behind.
Ever expanding production options
Another key to success often lies in profitably managing and expanding product options, aided by the product configurator capabilities of a modern ERP system.
This enables companies to improve the efficiency of their order management, manufacturing process and other key areas. In short, it enables your business to efficiently expand your offerings, without giving your admin team a headache.
Successful manufacturing leaders are always questioning how they can expand their production options, without compromising profit or deliverability.
Takeaways
- Always think expansion (through optimisation)
- Accurate reporting can be on mobile devices
- Think automated - think efficient
What Successful People do Before 8 AM
- Get moving. Exercising in the morning stimulates your mind and body for the rest of the day. Also, by getting it over with in the morning, you’re less likely to skip your exercise regimen after a long day at work.
- Map your day. Taking a few minutes in the morning to think about what your day has in store means you’re less-rushed and better-prepared.
- Eat. Many of us have fallen into a routine of making sure the kids are fed, but we just grab coffee for ourselves as we head out the door. Healthful breakfasts fuel our bodies and, with today’s busy schedules, might offer the only time we can connect with our kids and families for a few minutes.
- Visualize your day. Take some time in the quiet of the morning to be calm and think positive thoughts about your day — or even spend a few minutes meditating.
- Do the least desirable thing on your to-do list first. Whether it’s a project at work, a difficult conversation with a co-worker or any other challenge that’s looming, get it over with early. People are generally more well-rested and energetic in the morning, so take advantage of that and get the hard stuff out of the way first.
What Successful People Do Before Bed
Organize tomorrow: This idea seems so basic, yet so few people do it. At the very least, set a schedule for the day. Pick your clothes and create a to-do list. Getting all of this out of your brain will allow you to relax for the evening and make it easy to get things started in the morning.
Decompress: By the end of the day you are carrying much of your daytime activities in your brain and your body. Take some time to drop those shoulders and relax the brain. Use a book, TV, or video game to make your brain stop working so you can alleviate the stress and let go.
Imagine a preferred future: Distractions can come fast and furious during the day and make you forget why you are working so hard. Take some mental space to think about how things could and should be. Picture yourself as the happy and successful person you choose to be.
Forgive yourself: No one is perfect, and ambitious people tend to be the hardest on themselves. Give yourself the positive strokes you deserve. Let your heart know that just because you didn’t achieve perfection today doesn't mean you won’t be successful tomorrow. Give yourself a pat on the back for effort.
Get some love: You've been that mechanized soldier all day, so it's time to go back to being human and feeling some compassion. Spend time with loved ones and get that warm feeling inside. Play with your kids, cuddle with your significant other, or even snuggle up with your poodle like I do. A little warm fuzzy goes a long way in making you feel human and happy.
Thank the universe: No successful person gets there all on his or her own. Success requires a perfect storm of support and opportunity. Mentally give thanks to all those who contribute to your advancement each day. Give spiritual thanks for the forces beyond the physical as well.
Clear the mind: Sleep is near, but good sleep requires a clear and healthy mind. Use breathing and meditation to blast out all of those thoughts that hold you in the awake space. Deepen your breath and let the mental anxiety leave your body as white steam with each exhale. Soon enough the morning will arrive bringing new adventure.
Editors Note: This article was originally posted by Adam Robinson at Cerasis, and is published here with permission. Cerasis is a top North American third party logistics company offering logistics solutions with a strong focus on LTL freight management. They specialize in working with manufacturers and distributors, and post helpful articles on topics that interest and concern all food manufacturers.
Topics: Business & Leadership
