Several years ago, former Boston Celtics head coach, Brad Stevens, was tasked with writing his then 9-year-old daughter a letter in connection with the Leaders & Daughters initiative sponsored by global executive search firm, Egon Zehnder.
The theme of his advice to her was profound and timeless, and also applicable to a much wider audience:
“Be a great teammate.”
With any luck, you’ve had the good fortune to experience this firsthand – on a sports team, at a job, in a rock band, or as a member of a dance ensemble or theatrical cast.
Great teammates energize and lift the collective spirit of the group.
They show compassion and listen attentively.
They give of themselves and bring out the best in others.
They are selfless, gracious and kind.
And the best part?
Anyone can be a great teammate, regardless of their title, athletic ability, intellectual horsepower or creative talents.
Great leadership starts with being a great teammate.
How you choose to “show up” on a team will largely determine the extent of your influence and the value you bring to the group, and thus it is a significant contributor to future success.
