In my last blog, I shared how important it is to develop one or more employees who can manage the business while you’re away. Whether you call them a lead employee, acting manager, or person in charge, choosing the right person matters.
When you’re away from the business, you want someone who will represent you well—someone you trust to protect and even enhance the reputation you’ve worked hard to build. That’s why I want to walk you through what I’ve learned over the years about identifying potential leaders in your workplace.
The best lead employees are reliable, trustworthy, knowledgeable, and respectful. These are the people who will give you peace of mind when you take time off—whether it’s for a vacation, family need, or just a day to recharge.
What to Look for in a Lead Employee
✅ Someone Who Is Reliable
When you’re not around, you need someone who consistently follows through and doesn’t require reminders. A reliable employee:
- Is on time and dependable
- Gives notice when they need to change their schedule
- Follows your policies and procedures
- Completes tasks correctly and on time
- Can be trusted with tasks like ordering supplies or making bank deposits
- Keeps their commitments and doesn’t make excuses
✅ Someone You Can Trust
You need someone who will do the right thing—even when no one’s watching. A trustworthy employee:
- Works well without constant oversight
- Is honest and transparent
- Makes decisions with integrity
- Admits mistakes and works to correct them
- Respects your business and protects its value
- Puts the company’s best interests first when you’re not there
✅ Someone Who Knows the Business
A qualified leader understands how the business works and how you want things done. A knowledgeable employee:
- Understands day-to-day operations
- Supports your business goals and works to achieve them
- Can confidently explain products and services to customers
- Exercises good judgment in difficult or unusual situations
- Anticipates how you would respond and acts accordingly
- Brings you thoughtful ideas for improvement
✅ Someone Who Is Respectful
Your lead employee should treat others with professionalism and kindness. A respectful employee:
- Shows courtesy to customers and coworkers
- Listens well and communicates clearly
- Considers all perspectives before making decisions
- Offers praise in public and correction in private
- Maintains composure when tensions rise
- Recognizes and appreciates their team members
Leadership Benefits Everyone
If you select and train the right people, you’ll be able to step away from your business knowing it’s in capable hands. Not only will you enjoy peace of mind and time to rest, but your lead employees will grow in their own confidence, responsibility, and job satisfaction.
Paul reminds us in Scripture,
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” – 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NIV)
Developing trustworthy leaders within your business is one of the best investments you can make—not just for your time off, but for the future of your company.
Susan's Reflections 