By: Eric Thompson
In a world where economic fluctuations, rapid technological change, and shifting consumer expectations are common challenges, small businesses often need to remain agile to survive—and, ideally, to flourish. Unlike large corporations, which frequently have the advantage of robust training programs and layers of leadership, small enterprises are typically steered by a handful of individuals who often wear multiple hats. In The Leadership Route, Alex Cummins suggests that in this challenging landscape, leadership isn’t just one of many business functions—it’s often the driving force behind long-term success.
Leadership as a Key Factor in Small Business Success
Cummins proposes that strong leadership is not a luxury but often a necessity. For small business owners juggling sales, operations, HR, and finance, the temptation to handle everything themselves is common. However, The Leadership Route encourages entrepreneurs to step back and reconsider this approach. As Cummins puts it, “You may not be able to do it all alone, and you might not need to.”
One of the book’s core messages is the potential importance of building a culture where people feel valued and supported. By empowering team members—even when the “team” is just a few people—leaders may multiply their impact without burning out. This strategy isn’t just about delegation; it’s often about creating an environment where employees feel a sense of ownership and are more likely to contribute meaningfully.
From Doer to Enabler: Leadership in a Rapid-Growth Environment
Startups and small businesses frequently experience sudden spurts of growth that can strain existing structures and processes. As Cummins explains, this is often the moment when leadership must evolve. “Startups can grow fast, and so leadership should develop just as quickly,” he says. In other words, a founder who once made every decision may need to shift from being the primary doer to becoming a strategic enabler.
This transition is often easier said than done. Leaders may need to move from control to trust—lifting others rather than simply executing tasks themselves. Cummins notes that this doesn’t mean giving up on oversight but rather redefining what leadership looks like. The leader’s role can become about modeling key behaviors, reinforcing the company’s values, and maintaining the spirit of the original culture even as the organization becomes more complex.
Embracing Decentralization to Build Ownership and Speed
A central theme in The Leadership Route is the potential power of decentralized decision-making. Many small businesses begin with a centralized structure out of necessity—after all, the founder is usually knowledgeable about the business’s operations and vision. However, as the company grows, this model can quickly become a bottleneck.
“Embracing decentralized decision-making may build trust, accelerate execution, and help develop leadership,” Cummins suggests. By clearly communicating the vision, values, and goals of the business, leaders can equip their teams to make decisions without constant oversight. This could not only improve efficiency but also foster a sense of accountability and engagement among employees.
Decentralized leadership might also help businesses respond more quickly to changes in the market. When challenges arise or opportunities emerge, empowered employees are often more likely to take initiative, contribute ideas, and help the organization pivot effectively.
Leadership in a World of Uncertainty
Change is frequently a constant for small businesses—be it economic downturns, consumer behavior shifts, or evolving technologies. Cummins proposes that ideal leaders may view uncertainty not as a threat but as a potential catalyst for innovation and growth.
He also highlights that leadership isn’t necessarily confined to the top of the org chart. Every employee could have the potential to lead in their own domain if given the opportunity and encouragement. Cultivating this kind of shared leadership might create a more resilient, motivated workforce that could help the business weather storms and seize new opportunities.
The Ethical Edge: Why Values-Driven Leadership Can Matter
Beyond strategic acumen and operational effectiveness, Cummins also discusses the possible role of ethical and inclusive leadership. Unlike large corporations—where social responsibility is sometimes performative or compliance-driven—small businesses may have the chance to embed values like fairness, inclusivity, and transparency at the core of their culture.
“Consumers today often show a preference for businesses that align with their values,” Cummins writes. Whether through community engagement, sustainable practices, or fair labor policies, small businesses that lead with integrity tend to build deeper trust with customers and employees alike. This, in turn, could strengthen brand loyalty and contribute to long-term financial health.
Leadership Is a Skill That Can Be Developed
One of the encouraging insights from The Leadership Route is the idea that leadership isn’t necessarily an innate gift—it’s a skill that can often be learned, practiced, and refined over time. Cummins recommends that small business owners prioritize leadership development, even when resources are tight. This might take the form of mentorship, peer coaching, strategic planning sessions, or simply taking time to reflect on what kind of leader they want to be.
The potential payoff is clear: businesses that invest in leadership may be better equipped to navigate complexity, build cohesive teams, and position themselves for sustainable growth.
Final Thoughts
In today’s ever-evolving business climate, leadership is increasingly seen as essential for small businesses. The Leadership Route offers both a philosophical foundation and practical tools for entrepreneurs and small business leaders who want to explore ways to rise to the challenge. By cultivating a leadership style rooted in empowerment, adaptability, and ethics, small business owners might transform their organizations into resilient, dynamic engines of innovation and purpose.
Get your copy of The Leadership Route: How Different Approaches to Management Can Shape a Leader, and start reading today!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute business, financial, or legal advice. The views expressed are based on the concepts outlined in The Leadership Route and may not apply to all businesses or situations. Readers are encouraged to consult with a qualified business professional or advisor before implementing any leadership strategies or making decisions related to their small business operations. Results and experiences may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Published by Art B.
