Saturday, May 7, 2011

ULTIMATE COACHES' CLINIC: JOE TORRE

In 2008, Pat Williams, the GM of the Orlando Magic and a tremendous motivational speaker put out a book, "The Ultimate Coaches' Clinic." It is a fascinating book because of the style Pat utilized. He surveyed over 1000 coaches and administrators for insights to what is important to successfully do their job. From time to time I will share a few but it is a great book to own and I highly recommend it. Here are some thoughts from Joe Torre:

• I do love the feeling of a big win. But you don’t have to have a World Series ring to be a winner. A winner is somebody who goes out there every day and exhausts himself trying to get something accomplished. Being able to get the most from their ability. That’s what characterizes a winner.

• Every employee must feel useful. In order to build teamwork, you must acknowledge each individual’s worth, letting him know that his role, no matter how seemingly minor, is a vital cog in the team’s efforts. When you grant your stars, your role players, and everyone in between the same level of attention, you lay the groundwork for an unselfish team spirit, one where everyone belongs.

• In any organization, it’s the manager’s responsibility to set a respectful tone from the top. If you treat employees with regard, you’re teaching them, by example, to treat one another with regard. This is crucial, because disrespect breeds divisiveness on any team. Whether you’re in a super-competitive business or in team sports, winning is tough enough when you’re all pulling together. When you’re pulling apart, you have no chance.