I am a big fan of the University of Tennessee football program. This past weekend, the team suffered what may be its worst loss in program history. Whether this is true of not, I don’t know. What I do know is the entire team, including the players, coaches, and staff, is at a crossroads early in the season The trajectory of the season is yet to be decided, but it can be directed through strengthened leadership.
There at two leaders who play critical roles. First is the coach, and for purposes of this blog, let’s consider him (both are males) the CEO. The second is the athletic director, who can be considered the Chairman of the Board. What can each do?
Athletic Director/Chairman of the Board
A good Chairman will have regular, ongoing meetings with the CEO, and therefore, should be familiar with the business plan being implemented. So in this case, we have to assume the Athletic Director has approved of the rebuilding plan of this football program, and supports the coach’s direction. In light of last week’s lost and the corresponding outcry from fans and pundits, the athletic director’s role is to strengthen the leadership of his coach. He should publicly express his support of his coach (CEO). Why? Because no matter how confident the coach is, with the questions being raised by the players, staff, fans and other coaches, he is likely beginning to doubt himself. No one with self-doubt can effectively lead. By publicly stating his support of the coach to the players and coaches, and because this is a high-profile situation, to the public, the athletic director (Chairman) gives the coach one less thing to worry about (his job).
The athletic director should continue meeting with the coach to review and discuss the plan for improvement, offering his advice when appropriate, and helping the coach to think through various scenarios. If done appropriately by the athletic director, the coach should welcome these meetings and discussions. Again, the athletic director’s job is to strengthen the leadership of his CEO during this difficult time.
Coach/CEO
Like a CEO whose company has just failed a product launch or missed earnings targets, this coach has suffered a visible and difficult set back. ALL eyes are now on him to respond. The coaches who report to him (think Vice Presidents) and their direct reports (think managers) and the players (think staff) are looking to him for leadership, guidance and direction. How might he use this setback as an opportunity to strengthen his leadership?
First, he has to affirm that he has a plan in place, and that this “business” plan is being executed. And while the loss was a setback, he is confident that his plan will lead to the overall objective. He needs to convey that he has a plan and communicate it at each and every meeting.
Second, he needs to meet with his Vice Presidents and Managers and remind them of the plan and the objectives. He should address the loss head on, where they did well and didn’t do well, and what may need to change. (Got to be careful here..one should not change a “business” plan because of one setback. If the plan is solid, continue to work it and reaffirm its purpose with the group.) He needs to remind them that they are the right people at the right time to execute on the plan. He needs to rebuild confidence in themselves (because these people are out in the community and are hearing all the negative talk) and in him.
Third, he should have an all-employee meeting (players and coaches) to discuss the loss and reaffirm the plan going forward. Again, he needs to focus on each person’s confidence – confidence in themselves and in him. He should have a very candid “Q&A” session, answering all the of the questions each person may have.
Fourth, he should voice his support of his coaches, staff and players. Like his boss supporting him, he needs to let his subordinates know that he “has their backs” and will not undermine them. If he has performance concerns, he should address those in private.
The purpose of doing these 4 things is to give the team, or the company, the confidence that their leader understands, is listening, has a plan, and is focused on building up and not tearing down. By doing this, he is positioning and strengthening his leadership for years to come.
Last Words
Even a bad loss presents an opportunity to strengthen one’s leadership.