Take Me With You

Take Me With You

Do you have the right team in place to ensure that you can step away from your business, safe in the knowledge that it would still be there when you returned?

Last month, and for the first time ever, I left the running of my business to other people.

My wife Denise and I went on a tour of the USA.  When we go on holiday, we reference Prince songs, so this tour was called ‘Take Me With You’ (and follows on from our ‘When Doves Fly’ tour of the Far East a few years ago).

Only in absolute emergencies

I left my laptop at home, and I removed my emails from my mobile phone.  All clients were aware that I was away and that, whilst there was a contingency plan made for them, it should only be used in absolute emergencies.  

My team had my complete trust and I knew they would only disturb me if it was urgent.  There was only one emergency which came from a client who had a question about a tribunal (and it was the right call for my team to contact me).

In every other matter, the team just got on with it, and I didn’t worry at all – I know I left the business in safe hands.

Sights, sounds, and smells

We booked business class tickets which meant that we had a flat bed on the plane (for both journeys), and it’s the first time that I was ever able to sleep properly on a plane.

When in America, we saw a number of attractions and shows such as the Michael Jackson Cirque Du Soleil, Route 66, the Motown Museum, the Rocky steps, and the White House.

As you may know, I’m also a huge fan of the Hard Rock Café brand, and while in Las Vegas, I celebrated my 100th visit to one of their cafes.  For more information about any of the above, visit my LinkedIn profile and search for #TakeMeWithYou.

A first time for everything

Jess has worked for me for almost a year and knows our processes inside out, plus she has developed a great relationship with clients.  She coped fantastically well while I was away.  In fact, she wrote a blog about it (which was last month, which I suggest you read next).

This is the first time since I started my business almost four years ago that I have been able to switch off.  It shows the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people but also having the right relationship with your clients.  Upon my return, there was nothing urgent to deal with because my team had taken care of everything.  

We had a great time, but it’s also great to be back.