For many of us, sports have often served as a metaphor for collaboration, endurance, and accomplishment. Individual success in athletics is usually largely ascribed to the team, whether it's a game-ending penalty, a shootout to break a tie or a game-winning kick.
Considering a startup team does not have to be any different. Employees are the players on a sports team. You have a shared aim, much like a sports team: to build the company. To win! And, similar to a sports team, there are shared values: teamwork, transparency, tenacity, and more.
Most essential, your startup team establishes a 'culture' for everyone in the organization. Like a sports team, your team's reputation is defined by prior teams, results, and fans.
Sports Team Culture
What is the primary distinction between a family and a sports team? Sports teams are designed with one goal in mind: to win. Before the first practice session, every player on the team is aware of the team's goal, and this choice dictates every approach employed by the coach and players.
What is the primary distinction between a family and a sports team? Sports teams are designed with one goal in mind: to win. Before the first practice session, every player on the team is aware of the team's aim, and this choice dictates every approach employed by the coach and players.
Unlike families, the relationships that bind members of a sports team are founded on a common objective rather than unconditional love. This fosters a unique sense of camaraderie and belonging while not jeopardizing the overarching achievement goal. This fundamental aim frames additional goals such as team welfare, happiness, etc.
Set people up for success
Be mindful to put your new hire on projects where they will thrive. Even if your team members have been with you for a while, ensure they are happy with their present work arrangements and commitments. Ask them what they need and how you can help. As the team captain, you should always have a pulse on how your fellow teammates are feeling about their responsibilities within the team.
Learning happens regardless of the results
Not everything can be predicted or accounted for. The team is successful when each member can trust that the other members are doing what is expected of them. Adjustments must be made when this does not happen, and the immediate action plan may change. Even wins can be learning opportunities!
