The Nuclear Theory: Proven way to build an engaged culture

Posted: August 14, 2012 | Categories: Leadership, Team Building

This past week, I was on a coaching call with an entrepreneurial client.  Her business is growing, and she wanted to be sure she was building the kind of culture that would be an extension of her values.  In our conversation, Sue mentioned how pleased she was with one team member in particular.  Here name is Connie, and her efforts and enthusiasm are in the “wow” quantum.  She offered extra services and thought of “add-on’s” she could provide that required little or no capital investments.  She was also a cornucopia of ideas and suggestions.  As my mother would say, “Put a nickel in her, and you’ll get your money’s worth”.

Hearing about Connie reminds all of us of where all individual greatness begins…enthusiasm, passion, and a deep abiding desire to contribute and succeed.  How about team greatness?  I have found that it starts in the same place:  A good team is built around a positive, focused and energetic nucleus.  Quite often, that begins with one person.

This concept is nothing new.  It makes sense.  Making it happen takes strong leadership.  In the late 60’s, the Green Bay Packers won so many championships that Green Bay received the nickname of “Title Town”  Coach Vince Lombardi was open about his strategy:  He built his team around the quarterback – Bart Starr.  He knew that if he started with a pure nucleus, that nucleus would generate enthusiasm, and attract like-minded attitudes and commitment

Let’s go back to Sue:  Like the coach, Sue has chosen to build her team around a solid nucleus, and that is Connie.  Her next step is to have a one-on-one conversation with Connie, and let her know the game plan.  From that point, through open communication, trust and respect, her business is positioned to grow in good health.

Consider an opposite approach:  What if Sue did like many managers do?  She would spend far too much time talking and wrestling with those people who were dragging their feet, or just not that engaged.  All the while she would be doing this, Connie’s enthusiasm could lose steam, and there could be a high risk of losing a gem.

If we want to build an ideal culture:

1. Identify those with the most enthusiasm and who are in alignment with the vision and goals of the company.
2. Form your team around them.
3. Watch it grow!

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Five competencies of a championship team: http://www.durhamcoach.com/blog/2012/08/09/the-five-competencies-of-a-championship-team/