Australian small business owners, especially in those early years, often fall into the trap of taking responsibility for everything.

If things are still small and in their infancy, that model might be manageable – for a time. However, the structure has to adapt as the business grows and more people join the team. Otherwise, things become untenable; everything falls on you, the owner, and you end up with a business that drives you, rather than you driving the business. In other words, you just end up with a job in your own business.

So, how do you adapt? I’ve been a Sydney business coach since 2007. In my experience, the key solution for most businesses is to have what I call a wingman or wingwoman, also called a Second in Charge or 2IC. In this article, we’ll look at:

• Why you need a 2IC and their importance
• How appointing one can be a game changer for you and your business
• What their roles and responsibilities entail
• What you need to look for in an effective 2IC

Why Does Your Business Need a Second In Charge?

There is no question that Australian small business owners give 100%. But often, they pour all that energy and effort into the business, not on it. A second in charge frees you up to have the physical and mental space to step back, see what will move the dial, and what you need to do to make things happen.

Unless this resource can clear your plate of the ‘small stuff,’ you’ll never be able to accelerate your business as quickly and efficiently as you want… Or you’ll exhaust yourself and burn out trying.

Don’t see this appointment as an expense; consider it an investment. It will be one of the smartest moves you’ll ever make.

Why Is a Wingman/Wingwoman Important?

We already know a business co-pilot allows you to focus on business growth. But how else do they add value?

Improves Your Work/Life Balance
How many holidays have you sacrificed for work? How often have you had to cancel a school play or reschedule dinner with friends because work got in the way? Not any more. Your Second In Charge should be able to make decisions in your absence to ensure things keep running smoothly.

Work aside, this role is an investment in your well-being—as the business head, you must maintain quality of life so you can lead by example.

Increases Productivity and Efficiency
As the owner, you can still set tasks, but it’s now the responsibility of the 2IC to delegate and achieve them. A committed resource focused on business goals helps streamline processes and create accountability.

Has a problem occurred? You no longer have to drop everything to put out the fire—your Second In Charge should already be on it. Resolving operational issues and reducing bottlenecks will be part of their responsibility.

Strategic Execution
You can build a strategy but you don’t have time to execute it. Not a problem – that’s what your 2IC is there for. They can help translate your strategic planning into action plans and monitor the process.

Enhanced Decision Making
Two heads are better than one. Now, you have someone to share ideas with, get a second opinion, and see things from a different point of view. This all leads to better decision-making and balanced business outcomes.

Improves Workplace Culture
Your wingman or wingwoman can serve as a bridge between you and your team. They should have the time and scope to listen to concerns and provide meaningful solutions. They should also have more time to invest in the team members, which improves morale and encourages ownership, accountability and responsibility.

Roles and Responsibilities of a 2IC

Ultimately, this job profile will vary depending on your business circumstances. However, their role can encompass any of the following:

• Operational and project management
• Quoting
• Strategic execution
• Customer service
• Staff development

How Do You Find The Right Second in Charge For Your Business?

As a small business mentor, I am often asked this question. They could be right under your nose! Often, SMEs can promote from within. This might require additional caretaking by you in the early days, but it’s well worth it.

I recommend looking for people who exhibit the following traits and values:

• Someone who shows responsibility
• Maintains solid ethics and integrity
• Has a naturally good attitude
• Is accountable
• Enjoys working with people and is a natural leader
• Understands how to run a business
• Can think strategically
• Is high-performing, organised and efficient
• Tackles problem-solving with gusto
• Is a great communicator
• Has a good knowledge of your industry

This advice will prove helpful to your company. If you want to find other ways to take your business to the next level, call me about my small business coaching programs. This is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what we can do to create a business that puts you into the driver’s seat and works for you!