Growing Our Team, Creating Our Legacy
What Will Your Legacy Be?
As I work with various teammates in our headquarters and in the field, I sometimes wonder what the difference is between the best and the rest. If you think about it, the vast majority of our associates know the policies, programs and requirements for completing their duties. Why then are some more effective than others? My theory is regardless of rank or position it comes down to what’s inside you, the intangibles that are not always so easy to see.
The “It” factor
In sports, you sometimes hear an athlete being described as having “it” when referring to a player who always seems to come out on top. The New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady had a very successful college career. And yet, he was the 199th player selected that year, and six quarterbacks were picked before him. Brady committed himself to making sure those who passed on him would regret their decision.
Like our best, what separates Brady from the rest is what’s inside him. He is cool under pressure. His work ethic, passion and preparation are legendary. He is a loyal teammate, and his drive for results is seldom equaled. He has what I refer to as the “it factor.” The qualities found in those having the it factor can apply to any position.
Our best performers are highly skilled at interpersonal, social and business competencies. They are passionate about taking care of their fellow associates, customers and our mission. They, too, have characteristics that can’t be measured, but we know are there. They are excellent teammates, don’t shy away from challenges and develop outstanding teams.
We make sure everyone knows how to run a register, analyze reports or manage programs, but what are we doing to develop our competencies?
We tend to spend a great deal of time learning how to do our job and training others how to do theirs, but very little time on developing our competencies. We make sure everyone knows how to run a register, analyze reports, or manage programs, but what are we doing to develop our competencies?
It is important for today’s success and to prepare for the future. Without developing our competencies, we will never be as good as we could be. If you think about the people who have impacted you most in your life, it is likely more because of their competencies and soft skills than because of their results.
Resources coming soon
Each month, we will focus on a business competency so we can grow together. While the list is long, I’d like to start with legacy. Your day- to-day actions are shaping your eventual measure as a leader, individual and teammate. As you go about your day, think about what your legacy will be.
I encourage you to utilize the tools available through Leap Into Leadership Management Development Program offerings in LEX and other developmental resources.
Look for a message coming soon to help each of us develop our own legacy. Use these resources for your personal development, stimulate conversation among your teammates or share during morning meetings. I also encourage you to utilize the tools available through Leap Into Leadership Management Development Program offerings in LEX and other developmental resources you’re familiar with.
The question remains, what will your legacy be?
