Built for the Trades Dan Dowdy

Overview
In this episode of the Built for the Trades channel, the focus is on continuously improving leadership skills. The distinction between leading and managing is highlighted, with leadership emphasized as being about influence rather than just accountability. Viewers are encouraged to understand that leadership goes beyond formal management roles and involves how one carries themselves and influences others. As John Maxwell succinctly puts it, "leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less." Don't forget to engage with the channel by liking, subscribing, and sharing this valuable content with others who could benefit from it.

 

Discussions
Dowdy suggests fixing one's mindset by embracing lifelong learning and learning from both positive and negative experiences. He introduces the concept of categorizing improvements into four areas (Faith, Family, Finance, Fitness) and encourages viewers to establish habits to support growth in these areas. Additionally, creating a strong why and having an accountability partner are highlighted as crucial for maintaining motivation and consistency.

The importance of embracing progress over perfection and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth is emphasized. Dowdy concludes by reminding viewers that leadership development is a journey and encourages them to take action on the strategies discussed. Finally, he encourages engagement with the channel by liking, subscribing, and sharing the video.

Overall, Dowdy stresses that leadership isn't about achieving perfection but about continuous growth and improvement, and by incorporating these strategies, viewers can enhance their leadership skills and lead with purpose.

 

Strategies for continuously improving your leadership skills:


Fix Your Mindset:

Leadership growth is a lifelong journey; there's no final destination.
Wake up with the intention to grow because if you're not progressing, you're regressing.
Embrace learning from both positive and negative experiences.

   Categorize Improvements into 4 F’s:

 Faith, Family, Finance, Fitness.
 Decide which area of your life you're focusing on improving.
 Be intentional about your growth in that area.
 Establish habits to support your improvement efforts.

Create a Strong Why:

Motivation is fleeting; you need a compelling reason to persist.
Implement systems to support your goals, like prepping for the gym or scheduling financial meetings.
Have an accountability partner. 

Embrace Progress Over Perfection:

Accept that mistakes will happen; it's how you respond that counts.
Let go of past setbacks and focus on moving forward with purpose.

Embrace Challenges: 

View challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. 
Adopt a growth mindset that encourages continuous learning and improvement.

Overview
In this episode of Built for the Trades, host Dan Dowdy introduces three simple steps to ignite motivation and inspire excellence within your team. He begins by highlighting a common pitfall among business owners and managers: relying solely on monetary incentives to motivate their team members, which often leads to frustration when it proves insufficient. Recognizing that everyone is unique, Dowdy emphasizes the importance of understanding what drives each individual on the team. He then outlines practical steps to achieve this, including actively listening and observing team members, personalizing rewards and recognition, and providing opportunities for growth. By implementing these strategies, listeners can create a work environment where motivation thrives and excellence becomes the norm. Tune in to discover how to unlock your team's full potential on Built for the Trades.

Discussions
In this episode of Built for the Trades, host Dan Dowdy shares three simple steps to ignite motivation and inspire excellence within your team. He begins by addressing the common misconception among business owners and managers that monetary incentives alone are sufficient for motivation, leading to frustration when this approach falls short. Dowdy emphasizes the importance of recognizing the uniqueness of each team member and understanding what motivates them individually. The three steps outlined include building relationships through scheduled one-on-one meetings, setting clear personal and professional goals, and implementing a system for recognizing and celebrating achievements. By following these steps, listeners can foster a motivated and inspired team, leading to greater success in their businesses.

"Step 1: Build a relationship with them using scheduled monthly 121’s. The scheduled part of this is really important. We need to build trust and the only way to build trust is through consistency. 

Step 2: Set Clear Goals for them, not just the company. Start by defining clear, achievable personal and professional goals with your team. Make sure they understand what success looks like and why it matters. When everyone is on the same page, motivation naturally follows."

"Step 3: Choose to see the good more often than the bad. Put a system in place that allows you to call out the achievements of you team during team meetings. Not just sales, but talk about personal accomplishments and point this back to your core values.

Overview
In this podcast episode, the Built of the Trades channel focuses on empowering leaders in the trades industry by delving into the crucial topic of developing emotional intelligence as a plumbing business leader. The host, with over 20 years of experience in the plumbing industry, introduces their coaching program aimed at helping business owners maximize their leadership potential. Emotional intelligence (EI), defined as the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions effectively, is highlighted as essential for fostering better relationships, communication, and team dynamics. Through a story illustrating the consequences of lacking emotional intelligence, the podcast underscores the importance of developing this skill for both personal and professional growth.

Discussions
To cultivate your emotional intelligence as a plumbing business leader, here are four practical steps:

 


Know Yourself to Grow Yourself: Begin by taking a free Enneagram Assessment to understand your strengths and weaknesses. Review and study the results to gain self-awareness.
Stay in Control and Respond, Don't React: Learn to manage your emotions effectively, responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively to situations.
Get an Accountability Partner: Seek support from someone who can hold you accountable for your actions and help you stay on track with your emotional intelligence development.
Connect with Others: Foster meaningful connections with your team members and colleagues, practicing empathy and understanding in your interactions.

By focusing on these four steps, you can gradually develop and strengthen your emotional intelligence, leading to improved relationships and overall business success. Remember, developing emotional intelligence isn't just beneficial—it's essential for your growth as a plumbing business leader.

If you found these insights helpful, don't forget to like and subscribe for more valuable content on leadership in the trades industry. And always keep in mind that even a small increase in emotional intelligence can make a significant difference in building a thriving business.

Overview
In this episode of Built for the Trades, host Dan Dowdy emphasizes the critical role of leading by example in plumbing business leadership. He highlights that leadership extends beyond giving orders, requiring leaders to embody desired values and work ethic. Through a cautionary tale, a successful plumber recounts how his complacency led to slacking off, arriving late, and neglecting his team, resulting in high turnover and his own regression to grunt work. Reflecting on his mistakes, he wishes he had understood the importance of leading by example earlier.

Discussions

Setting the Tone:"As leaders, our actions speak louder than words. It all starts with setting the right tone for professionalism and work ethic. Whether it's arriving early, dressing appropriately, or maintaining a positive attitude, our behavior sets the standard for the team."
Clear Communication:"Effective communication is key to leading by example. Clearly communicate expectations regarding professionalism and work ethic. This includes quality standards, deadlines, and the importance of integrity in all dealings."
Roll Up Your Sleeves:"Leadership isn't about delegating tasks and sitting back. It's about getting your hands dirty and showing your team that you're willing to put in the hard work alongside them. Whether it's troubleshooting a complex plumbing issue or assisting with administrative tasks, your willingness to pitch in fosters a culture of teamwork and dedication."
Continuous Learning: "Professionalism and work ethic are also about personal growth and development. Lead by example by demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning. Whether it's staying updated on industry trends, attending workshops, or pursuing further education, show your team that growth is a priority."
Acknowledge and Reward: "Recognize and reward professionalism and exemplary work ethic within your team. Whether it's a simple acknowledgment during team meetings or tangible rewards such as bonuses or extra time off, showing appreciation reinforces desired behaviors and motivates others to follow suit."

"Leading by example isn't just about being a boss; it's about being a leader your team respects and admires. By embodying professionalism and work ethic in your actions every day, you not only elevate your own leadership but also inspire those around you to strive for excellence. Remember, actions speak louder than words. Thanks for tuning in to Built for the Trades. Until next time, keep leading by example!"


Set the tone
Clear communication
Roll up your sleeves
Continuous learning
Acknowledge and reward

If you found this video helpful, be sure to like and subscribe for more valuable insights on leadership in the trades industry. And remember, Leading By Example can go a long way in building a thriving business.

Overview
In today's discussion, we will delve into the significance of providing constructive feedback within a team environment. By engaging in these crucial conversations, not only can team members grow and develop, but the overall success and growth of the company are also positively impacted. Without constructive feedback, individuals may stagnate, hindering their progress and potential for advancement.

Introduction to the FRISK Method
The FRISK method is a clear and simple approach to providing constructive feedback. Let's break it down:

F - FACTS: Start by presenting the facts about the employee's unsatisfactory conduct. 

R - RULE: Core Values, PA, Handbook.

I - IMPACT: Discuss the impact of the employee's unsatisfactory conduct on the Team.

S - SUGGESTIONS: PIP - check back in with them in a week. 

K - KNOWLEDGE: Ask them what they took away from the conversation..

Dan discussed effective strategies for delivering constructive feedback to enhance the performance of your team members in your plumbing business.

Constructive feedback is often overlooked or mishandled, leading to either decreased productivity or high turnover rates due to improper communication methods. Choosing to avoid these conversations might temporarily keep your team members content, but ultimately, it will impede the progress of your business.

Engaging in these discussions, however, will not only uplift individuals within your organization but also enhance the collective efficiency and culture of your entire team. This fosters teamwork and cultivates a positive environment conducive to growth and success in your plumbing business. In this episode, He will be guiding you through the proper techniques for delivering constructive feedback, including introducing the Frisk method.

You'll learn how to effectively structure conversations with your team members to ensure high-quality constructive feedback.

The episode provides guidance on effectively delegating tasks in a plumbing business to facilitate growth and scalability. Dan Dowdy, with years of experience in the plumbing industry, emphasizes the importance of delegation for business owners who find themselves overwhelmed with day-to-day tasks. The process involves identifying tasks that can be delegated, establishing the value of one's time, and empowering team members to take on responsibilities.













The episode begins with an introduction to the importance of delegation in scaling a plumbing business. The host shares personal experiences of being bogged down by day-to-day tasks and highlights the necessity of delegation for continued growth. The key steps to effective delegation are outlined:


Identify tasks that can be delegated by assessing their value compared to one's own time.
Choose between dumping all delegation on team members or delegating with clear communication and reasoning.
Demonstrate the task to the team, work alongside them, and gradually allow them to take the lead.
Reinforce progress by celebrating successes and providing constructive feedback.

Dan encourages business owners to take action by delegating tasks to free up time for strategic initiatives. The video concludes with a reminder to like, share, and subscribe for more tips on growing a plumbing business.