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Issue link: http://freshcup.epubxp.com/i/139019
BUSINESS BASICS continued from page 29 small-business owners to be flexible in their styles, recognizing their tendencies and adjusting their approach to business based on situations at hand. There are times when employees may need classic, demonstrative leaders. When a company is facing a crisis or uncertainty, for example, an outspoken and decisive manager can be ideal, Hofmann says. On the other hand, the day-to-day flow at a typical coffee shop opens up many opportunities for leaders of any personality persuasion to enlist the help of employees and sincerely listen to suggestions, especially when employees are on the front lines, working with customers and processes every day. The introvert-extrovert concept is also important to consider when recruiting new employees. "Hiring a mixture of employees and not making assumptions about who's going to do well in what kind of role" is one approach to negotiating the personality terrain, says Buelow. Slade understands this overturning of assumptions. "Six years ago I would have said that all staff members having direct contact with the consumer need to be extroverted," he says. "But we have found that can often come off as intimidating, overwhelming or just plain obnoxious." Slade adds that taking personality styles into account can be a great way to match employees to jobs that suit them. "I don't need my head roaster to be extroverted, but I do need him or her to be assertive so they can effectively shape and lead their department," he says. "A lead barista, however, I need to be extroverted enough to be comfortable with warm friendliness while serving customers, but thoughtful and observant enough to recognize when a person just wants to get a coffee and keep on trucking." As the leader of your own small business, acknowledge where you fall on the introversion/extroversion spectrum, and use your personality style to its advantage. With some reflection and consideration, you can coax out the best from your employees to help benefit your bottom line. freshcup.com July 2013 31