Every great leader understands that the heart of a thriving business lies in its people. But within every team, there are certain individuals who stand out – not just for their skills but for their drive, creativity and leadership potential. Recognising and nurturing this talent is not just a way to strengthen your business – it is also a way to shape the future of your industry and, perhaps, inspire the next generation of business owners.
Andy Knights, CEO of Stagecoach Performing Arts, has seen this process play out time and time again. Spotting talent and helping it grow, whether through promotion or by encouraging someone to take the leap into franchise ownership, is one of the most rewarding aspects of leadership. Here, he explains why looking beyond the present and investing in the potential of your people is not only beneficial for them but also essential for the long-term success of your business.
Spotting standout talent
Identifying talent is not just about spotting who hits their targets or performs their tasks well. True potential is found in those who go beyond the basics of their role and demonstrate qualities that suggest they could take on much more. They often show a natural curiosity, seeking to understand how the business works and finding ways to make things better. They display initiative, stepping up to solve problems without being asked, and show a genuine passion for what the business stands for.
At Stagecoach, our franchisees may often focus solely on nurturing the talents of their students, which is, of course, at the heart of what we do. However, it is equally important to recognise the potential of the people supporting you within your business. For instance, a drama teacher might not only deliver engaging and impactful lessons but also mentor newer colleagues, contribute innovative ideas to enhance the curriculum or foster a strong sense of community among students and parents. These qualities – initiative, passion and a willingness to lead – are clear signs that someone could excel in a larger role within the business.
Knowing when to have the conversation
Timing is everything when it comes to helping someone take the next step in their career. For some, the idea of additional responsibility might be exciting but intimidating. For others, it might be something they have never even considered. This is why having open, honest conversations with your team members about their aspirations is so important.
Start by making the conversation informal. Ask questions about where they see themselves in the future, what they enjoy most about their role and whether they have thought about opportunities for growth. If someone expresses hesitancy, it is a sign they might need more time or support to feel ready. Offering them opportunities to take on smaller leadership tasks, such as managing a project or mentoring a colleague, can help them build confidence and demonstrate their potential.
For those who show entrepreneurial traits – like an interest in how the business operates or a desire to make a broader impact – do not be afraid to introduce the idea of franchise ownership. Many franchise owners, including several within Stagecoach, did not initially see themselves as business owners until someone encouraged them to consider the possibility. Sharing your own journey can make the idea feel more achievable and relatable.
Developing future leaders
Recognising potential is only the first step. To truly help someone grow, you need to create an environment that encourages development. This starts with providing clear pathways for progression. For instance, you might introduce structured development plans that outline how someone can move from their current role into a management position or even into franchise ownership. Having a roadmap not only gives them clarity but also shows that you’re invested in their future.
Shadowing opportunities can also be invaluable. Allow team members to observe how decisions are made at the management level or involve them in strategic discussions. This exposure helps them understand the bigger picture and prepares them for the challenges of leadership. At Stagecoach, for example, teachers who showed an interest in the business side of operations were often invited to sit in on meetings or contribute to planning sessions, giving them a taste of what ownership might involve.
Encouraging risk-taking is another key part of development. Growth does not happen without stepping outside one’s comfort zone and, as a leader, it is your job to create an environment where people feel safe to experiment and learn from their mistakes. Celebrate initiative and effort, even if the outcome is not perfect, and you will foster a culture of growth and resilience.
Encouraging ambition
One of the most fulfilling aspects of leadership is watching the people you have mentored achieve great things. Sometimes, this might mean promoting someone within your business and seeing them thrive in a new role. Other times, it might mean encouraging someone to think bigger – to take the leap and start their own venture.
Stagecoach has seen many examples of this over the years. Some of our franchisees began their journeys as teachers or managers within the network. With the right encouragement and support, they transitioned from employees to business owners – bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the wider network. This kind of progression not only benefits the individuals involved but also strengthens the franchise as a whole, injecting it with fresh ideas and renewed passion.
As a leader, it is important to let go of the fear that you’re ‘losing’ a great employee when they decide to move on to bigger opportunities. Instead, view it as a testament to your leadership. When your team members succeed, it reflects positively on you and your ability to nurture and inspire talent.
At Stagecoach, we have seen firsthand how investing in people creates a powerful ripple effect, driving success for individuals, teams and the business in general. Great businesses are built by great people, and by nurturing talent within your team, you not only strengthen your business today but also lay the foundation for a lasting legacy of leadership and success.
For more information about franchise opportunities with Stagecoach, visit www.stagecoachfranchise.com