Football is here! To "kick things off," here's our checklist to build a winning team, along with quotes from Paul "Bear" Bryant, one of the most highly regarded college football coaches of all time.
recruit
"I think the most important thing of all for any team is a winning attitude."
The best teams are made of players whose diverse skills complement each other. But skills alone don't define a good recruit. The right fit for your culture is equally—or perhaps more—important. After all, skills can be acquired, but personality, attitude and working style are like dating: they need to be a good match.
What's most important to your team's success? Ask yourself, do I have the right people in my starting line up? How strong is my second string?
team spirit
"If you want to walk the heavenly streets of gold, you gotta know the password, 'Roll, Tide, Roll.'"
Every organization has culture, whether it's by design or by natural evolution. Organizations have rituals, language and heritage that are unique. Make your culture intentional and tied to your goals and values so that it is the rallying cry your employees can chant.
diagram
"There's a lot of blood, sweat, and guts between dreams and success."
Bryant's passion for winning was his trademark. He expected his players to make great sacrifices for football, and they knew it. His philosophy was crystal clear.
To play to win, everyone on the team must know the plays. Show them. Practice so they know your style and philosophy.
train
"It's not the will to win that matters; everybody has that. It's the will to prepare to win that matters."
Training never ends. It's not optional. Improvement is ongoing and critical to compete. Different training is needed for players in different roles. Do you provide training for everyone? Is your team properly trained and prepared to win?
develop
"I'll never give up on a player regardless of his ability as long as he never gives up on himself. In time he will develop."
With mentoring, this year's second string is next year's starter. Future leaders are working for you today. Do you know who will step into a leadership role next year, in five years and in 10?
correct
"When you make a mistake, there are only three things you should ever do about it: 1. Admit it. 2. Learn from it, and 3. Don't repeat it."
Replays show where errors were made. Evaluate and give the team the input. Learn and move on.
give credit
"If anything goes bad, I did it. If anything goes semi-good, we did it. If anything goes really good, then you did it. That's all it takes to get people to win football games for you."
Coaches notice and reward individuals and teams who deliver.
How well do you reward and recognize accomplishments in your organization, whether small projects or major initiatives?
If your team's passion for your brand needs to be fired up, it may be time to huddle and reignite things. Call Martha at 785.969.6203.
Tags: internal brand, brand alignment, employee engagement, corporate culture
