In our journey through the Ten Essential Acumen Skills for Successful Business Leaders, we’ve covered:
• Financial Acumen – understanding cash flow, budgeting, and smart investments
• Market Acumen – staying tuned to industry trends, customer needs, and competition
• Technological Acumen – using the right tools and platforms to boost performance

This month, we explore a quality that ties them all together: Leadership Acumen. So, what does strong leadership look like in the world of tile contracting? Tile contracting is, at its core, a business, and strong leadership is the foundation of every successful business. Thinking back on this, I was reminded of an article I read recently that outlined habits of highly effective leaders, things they do almost instinctively. A few stood out:
• Make others feel comfortable to speak up – Great leaders create environments where crews feel respected, heard, and encouraged to contribute.
• Communicate expectations clearly – The best teams thrive when the bar is clearly set, and the mission is understood.
• Make timely decisions – Leadership means keeping the work moving – whether it’s a tough call or aligning the team.
• Challenge others to think – It’s not just about strong backs on the jobsite – it’s about engaging minds, too.
• Lead by example – Actions matter. Consistency and showing up with purpose build real trust.
• Recognize effort and give feedback – Acknowledging wins, big or small, builds morale. Feedback helps people grow.
• Invest in relationships – Great leaders build trust, mentor others, and foster long-term loyalty.

Leadership isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being self-aware. I’ll be the first to say I’m strong in some areas and still growing in others. And that’s okay. Great leaders know their strengths, own their weaknesses, and keep learning. They build teams that complement their gaps and focus on continuous improvement. Leadership isn’t a title, it’s a daily habit. It’s about showing up with intention, supporting your team, and doing the work where it matters most, no matter what size business you are.

In July, we saw leadership in action at the NTCA Five-Star Accredited Contractors gathering in Nashville, a powerful event filled with shared knowledge and camaraderie. If you believe your business is among the best in the industry, I encourage you to start the application process to become an NTCA Five-Star Accredited Contractor. Find out more here: https://www.tile-assn.com/page/ntca-five-star-accredited-program.

Prior to this gathering, the NTCA Executive Board held its annual summer meeting to examine the health of our organization and the ongoing shaping of our future as an industry.

This month’s TileLetter theme, Artisan, pairs perfectly with Leadership. Artisanship thrives under leaders who value detail, inspire pride, and set a tone of professionalism. I hope you enjoy the issue.

Next month, we’ll dive into Strategic Acumen – how to think long-term and position your business for sustainable success.

Until then – lead with purpose, listen with intent, and as always:

Educate for Excellence!

Sincerely,

Rod Owen
President, NTCA
Rod.Owen@ccowen.us