Revolutionising Mindsets: From Cost-Cutting to Empowerment at City Skills
Cost-Cutting Isn’t Enough: It’s Time to Revolutionise Our Mindset at City Skills
Let’s face it: we’re all feeling the pinch. Whether it’s the rising energy bills or the ongoing economic uncertainties, it’s easy to slip into a cost-cutting mindset. But here’s the real kicker: solely focusing on trimming the fat stifles creativity and breeds fear. Believe me, I’ve seen it happen too many times. When we become obsessed with saving every penny, we inadvertently discourage our teams, dampening their spirit and reducing their engagement.
If we want improvements at City Skills—or any business for that matter—it’s about time we shift our focus. Instead of just tightening our belts, let’s direct our energy into what truly matters to our people:
- Making their work easier
- Enhancing our service
- Tackling the everyday challenges they face
By prioritising these elements, we unlock potential that goes beyond mere cost-cutting. After all, isn’t the goal to create a vibrant workplace where everyone feels valued and involved? That’s where the magic happens.
Creating a Culture of Improvement
Now, this isn’t just about making ourselves feel good. The principles of Lean coaching remind us that any improvement should ultimately aim to be easier, better, faster, and even cheaper. But I’d like to add one more crucial element to this mix: safety. When we foster a culture of psychological safety within our teams, we truly empower them.
Think about it. If team members feel safe to voice their concerns about waste or inefficiencies, they are far more likely to innovate and tackle solutions head-on. They become the front-line warriors in driving continuous improvement. And guess what? When they take ownership, costs begin to decline naturally. It’s a win-win situation.
Why Safety Matters
Creating this culture of safety involves building trust—trust that it’s okay to make mistakes and to learn from them. Everyone has a role to play in crafting a supportive atmosphere. When team members feel respected and valued, they’re more likely to contribute meaningful ideas.
True financial improvements don’t stem from fear and control; they blossom from a respect-filled environment that prioritises learning and growth. It’s a lesson I’ve learnt throughout my career. The most sustainable success comes when you listen to your people and nurture their ideas, rather than sending them a cost-cutting memo.
Shifting the Focus: Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost
So let’s keep it simple. When considering improvements, remember the sequence: Safety, Quality, Delivery, and then Cost. If we get that right, everything else will follow. Team safety and engagement are paramount—it’s the breeding ground for innovation. And innovations, in turn, lead to better quality and delivery.
Still wondering how to ensure your team feels safe and engaged? A good starting point is regularly asking for feedback and making it clear that every voice matters. Have periodic check-ins and encourage open discussions about challenges. It’s in these moments that magic happens.
What Next for City Skills?
So, as you sip your morning coffee and mull over your goals for City Skills, ask yourself: how are you creating a safe environment for your team? Are you striving for improvements that genuinely matter to them? Let’s revolutionise the way we approach business, not as a burden but as an opportunity for innovation and growth.
In a world where cost-cutting reigns supreme, let’s be the ones who champion creativity, safety, and real engagement. After all, it’s through our people that we’ll achieve true success. What are your thoughts on creating a culture of safety and improvement? I’d love to hear from you.
#CitySkills #ContinuousImprovement #PsychologicalSafety
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