Manage like a Hockey Mom
But in a good way
It is that time of year for hockey playoffs and not just in the NHL. It’s always exciting and entertaining and often provides inspiration and ideas for outside the hockey rink.
At a grandson’s recent Peewee AAA hockey tournament in Montreal, the welcome brochure included the Quebec Hockey Association’s Code of Ethics for Parents (also useful for grandparents). In reading it, I realized it could be adapted as a useful guide for business owners and managers. Here is my version.
The Code of Ethics for Entrepreneurs
As a business owner and responsible manager, I recognize that I have the potential and the opportunity to make an important contribution to the personal development and well-being of the individuals who choose to work with me and accept that as a priority over “winning the game”.
I will therefore ensure my conduct continually demonstrates that:
I understand that my employees are here for their benefit and pleasure, not mine.
I consider winning as part of the pleasure of playing the game; I will not exaggerate the pain of failure; and I will recognize errors as a necessary part of the learning experience.
I will respect the efforts and the decisions of the supporters and supervisors and of the outside authorities responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations. I will do my best to understand and accept the rules and regulations applicable to my business.
I will recognize good performance on the part of our individual employees, as well as that of our competitors.
I accept each individual’s limitations and will not project my own ambitions or unreasonable expectations upon anyone. My expectations will be appropriate to the qualifications and experience of each individual.
I will demonstrate and expect from all employees a reflection of the important values of respect, discipline, effort and loyalty.
I will not encourage or tolerate any level of personal harassment, conflict or aggressive behavior.
I will encourage and support the personal development of the skills and capabilities for every individual.
Good advice from responsible hockey moms. (I do notice that a lot gets ignored during the playoffs when winning is everything, but that’s another issue for a future article. Meanwhile, the hockey analysts are all over it.)
Be better. Do better. As a responsible, enlightened entrepreneur.
Your Uncle Ralph, Del Chatterson
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