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Team Chemistry Lesson from Nick Saban

Coach Nick Saban

Coach Nick SabanLike most sports fans, I like to cheer for the underdog.  Despite that, I reluctantly choose to view the recent 60 Minutes feature on Alabama Football Coach Nick Saban.  (see below)

He has built the most dominant program in college football today.  I previously viewed him as a dishonest mercenary millionaire who succeeds in the inherently dirty business of major college sports recruiting.  But I try to keep an open mind.  Is it possible to learn from someone who gets results in a very competitive business where success depends on (mostly) unpaid, young student-athletes?  Why don’t you decide?

The Quote: Mediocrity vs. Achievement

Early in the news segment, he got my attention when he said…

“Everybody’s got to buy-in to that standard. Or you really can’t have any team chemistry. “Mediocre people don’t like high achievers.  And, high achievers don’t like mediocre people.” – Nick Saban

Business HuddleApplied Chemistry

A CEO friend of mine once confided that his value for loyalty often leads to holding on to under-performing people.  He shared that when he eventually figures out that a person isn’t working out and pulls the plug, his high achievers proclaim:

Finally!  What took you so long? 

Over time, he’s discovered for himself that his high performing people grow to dislike the mediocre people.  He’s learned the value of addition by subtraction.  As he’s learned that lesson, they have built a high performing team that has led to their industry leading performance.

 

What’s Your High Standard?

Six Questions to Lead Your Team’s Beliefs

  1. What special things have you promised to your customers?
  2. Who’s bought-in?
  3. Who hasn’t bought-in?
  4. What is your tolerance for mediocrity?
  5. As a leader, isn’t your job to help the mediocre to see the light?
  6. If it becomes clear that they either can’t or won’t buy-in, when is it time to punt?

60 Minutes Video

The original video is now subscription only from CBS.  But I found this one to replace it.  Enjoy it while you can.

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Acknowledgements

  • Saban Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
  • I offered to quote/promote my CEO friend. He’s declined as he prefers to remain anonymous.