May 20 2005

Past Winner Supports Awards Program

As the Management Excellence Awards campaign rolls out across Queensland and the Northern Territory Agenda spoke with Tyson Franklin FAIM, Cairns 2004 Owner Manager of the Year and owner of the Proarch Podiatry Centre about his experiences as a nominee, regional winner and state finalist for the Awards.

Why did you decide to nominate for the Management Excellence Awards?

The Management Excellence Awards is the only awards program that recognises individual achievement in management. Even though my podiatry business had won awards in the past, I wanted to throw my management style in the firing line and see what eventuated.

In addition to this, I knew I would benefit from the experience of nominating and meet many business owners that I could learn from.

How has winning the 2004 Owner Manager of the Year category in Cairns influenced your management style?

It is impossible to know everything about management, however winning the Owner Manager category in Cairns gave me a little bit more belief in myself as a manager. It is so easy to get bogged down in day-to-day business activities and at times you ask yourself if you’re doing things correctly or could I be managing better. These negative questions can develop self-doubt but having belief in yourself is a major stepping-stone in personal achievement.

Besides winning, what was the most enjoyable part of being a participant in the Management Excellence Awards?

The whole process was enjoyable. The judging process both locally and at a state level was a fantastic experience. I was very much aware that I was being judged, but at the same time the judges themselves inspired me with their positive comments and suggestions. After both judging processes I left the room fired up!

In addition to this, the contacts I have made through, the MEA process have been very worthwhile. I have made friends that will last a lifetime.

What would be your advice to managers who are undecided about nominating for the Management Excellence Awards?

I would tell them that they have nothing to lose and everything to gain by nominating. Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back and don’t use time as an excuse. If you’re a manager, nominate and prove it.

Would you recommend entering the Management Excellence Awards to other managers? Why?

If you think you don’t need to enter the Management Excellence Awards to prove yourself as a manager, then don’t, but the people you manage will be inspired by the process, win or lose. Team members like to know that someone who has self-belief is managing them.

What motivates you to go to work each morning?

Having a clear vision of what I want to achieve now and in the future helps drive me and keep me motivated. I could easily sit back and enjoy having one of the most successful Podiatry businesses in the country and strive for nothing further, however it’s just not me. I want to see the business grow, develop and expand nationally. I want to see how far I can take my Podiatry business and at the same time, share my dreams and visions with others who will listen.