4 leadership tips from Donatos CEO

I have been a part of the fast casual restaurant industry for over 35 years and have come to understand what I feel is important in leadership. Last summer, I started a new weekly segment on my LinkedIn page called, "The Corner Piece: Leadership Insights by a Pizza Man." Every Wednesday, I share different ideas I have learned and concepts I have used to be a successful leader. Now, don't get me wrong…I haven't mastered them, but I am aware of them. Here are four of these weekly segments that have been resourceful and essential concepts to know as a leader.

1. The 1 question to ask
You can accomplish amazing things by asking ONE straightforward question every time you meet with your employees: "Is there anything I can do for you that will help you accomplish what you have planned?" That's it! First, it shows them how much you care and want to help. Next, you might be able to help get something "unstuck" in their work. Finally, you start doing the most crucial part of your job, which is to help your people achieve success. Never be afraid of the question and ask it every time. They will appreciate the opportunity to discuss their needs.

2. You did a great job
Human beings are built to assess risk. You can go as far back as the beginning of humankind when primitive humans' main focus was survival. We are always looking at what could possibly go wrong. But, bad leaders only point out what's wrong or what could go wrong. That can be a tiring, negative energy. Humans need validation! We need to be recognized and feel valued for our roles. That fact is, we don't tell people often enough how much we appreciate them. As a leader, make it a priority and do it often. But do it the right way. When showing recognition, be sincere, don't be vague and absolutely do not tack on an additional assignment or suggestion to your praise. Just sincerely give the specific praise… and let it sink in for them.

3. Doing nothing
Many leaders struggle with overreacting. Action should not be their only response. If they do not make dozens of decisions daily and direct everyone all the time, they do not feel they are staying ahead. Sure, it makes them feel they are improving the situation, but sometimes it is best to take a step back. The best leaders stop, take a breath, assess the gain against the risk of reacting and then make their decision. In many cases, the best decision is to do nothing. Leaders and businesses should celebrate inaction more often and have it as a part of their response strategy. Leaders make decisions all the time, and sometimes the best decisions are doing nothing.

4. Huh? Make it simple
One of the most vital parts of the job as a leader is to take the complex…and make it simple. No matter the business, bringing products or services to market always has many, many moving parts. To be successful, you must know how to navigate all the different variables to achieve all your goals. It is complex, and it can be challenging. The problem is that leadership communication requires the opposite skills. You need to make what you're doing easily digestible for your employees, and simplicity is key. Lay it out for them. Here's what we're doing…and here's why. Period. No one needs to know how complicated the objective is…they all have enough to worry about. Be clear, simple, and motivating.

Even at my age, I am still constantly learning new things and ideas. I encourage everyone to jump out of their comfort zones and try some of these new concepts next time they find themselves in similar situations. In closing, I want to offer one final thought. Being a successful leader is both built and taught. Sure, people are born with leadership qualities, but you must also learn how to use your strengths to succeed.

To learn more from Tom and to read his weekly leadership insights, you can connect with him at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkrouse/