Here in the greater Philadelphia area we are celebrating Villanova's Basketball Championship win. In a season of underdog triumphs, Loyola’s Sister Jean, and Nevada’s comeback kids, Villanova’s story is a lesson on creating a strategy for success. If you listen to the interviews with the team members and coaches, the foundational elements of their success become very clear. It’s a playbook frequently tapped by successful businesses.
Choose the people who fit your culture- Players are recruited for talent but how they fit into the culture of Villanova’s team determines invitation to join the team. Associations driven by staff members and volunteer leaders who share the same core values and goals will work better as a team and bring the membership together. This requires a great deal of trust, which is why having group members share the same core beliefs is the first step in the journey.
There’s no “I” in team—Whether in athletics or business, strong players who focus on the success of the group rather than trumpeting individual achievements, drive business forward. In a Good Morning America segment, Jalen Brunson was asked about game MVP Donte DiVincenzo. Brunson shrugged off any implication that DiVincenzo’s success diminished his spotlight. These kids genuinely care about each other and celebrate peers’ success. That said, recognition programs, for both staff and volunteers ensure that everyone gets their day in the sun.
Strong leaders deliver- Villanova has a strong, charismatic leader in Head Coach Jay Wright but peer leadership within the team creates a strong unit of individuals who lift each other after a setback and motivate each other to achieve. Veteran players helped newcomers navigate the complexities of college sports, both on and off the court.
Focus on being the best you can be- When each individual works towards being the best he can be; the team is lifted towards success. Each team member sees how they can positively impact outcomes and becomes accountable for their contributions. There’s nothing worse than showing up and working hard without a clear vision for success. With staff and volunteer leaders, clearly defined roles and goals make for more productive committees and boards and pipeline for volunteer recruitment.
Have a strong bench and ensure the players are ready- Who is your Big Ragu? Villanova’s sixth man-DiVicenzo- is now being hailed as the Michael Jordan of Delaware. Cross training and professional development of both paid staff and volunteers ensure that when your top talent is benched, you have another superstar in the wings.
When was the last time you updated your playbook, reviewed your core values or updated your succession plan? Whether your group is a Cinderella or dynasty, striving to remain fresh, relevant and hungry will ensure your spot at the big dance.
