It's not that simple. We live in an age of instant information. As a result, we see success and failure condensed by traditional and social media. Ripples of performance and perception spread at light speed.
"Consider the source." Jim Bouton's Ball Four put "consider the source" on the map if not household words. Is the critic Johnny Jackwagon or Walter Winchell? Did you get flamed by Porky Pig or some contemporary Calvin Coolidge?
"Don't whine, don't complain, don't make excuses." John Wooden carried these words of wisdom from his father. Criticism of objectively poor performance is expected. Criticism of perceived lack of effort or lack of interest hits harder. The worst indictments of players and coaches include words like "soft", "lazy", or "indifferent."
"Workmanlike." Desired perception pronouncements include "tough", "prepared", "motivated", "committed", "disciplined", and "intense." None of the former reference skill. We know effort when we see it.
"Media-friendly." The Boston Red Sox had a garrulous left fielder, Mike "Gator" Greenwell, popular with fans but especially with quote-hungry sportswriters.
His first four seasons he had a total WAR (wins above replacement) of 17.3 During his final six seasons his total WAR was 7.8. He had a negative defensive WAR for his career. Greenwell understood his value as a player but especially as a communicator. He prolonged the back nine of his career with media relationships.
"Spin Cycle." Good coaches don't have to embellish, manage expectations, or throw players under the bus.
Great coaches sometimes tell you nothing.
I get annoyed when coaches constantly diminish their team. "It's a rebuilding year", "we have a tough schedule", "we're inexperienced", or "we don't have a lot of talent." Our job is to get the most from our players not be apologistas.
"Truth." Kevin Eastman says that you have to be able to "live the truth, tell the truth, and take (handle) the truth." You know the maxim that "you can't fool children, dogs, and basketball players." Or more visually, "don't pee on my leg and tell me it's raining." Be honest without hurting.
Players may not appreciate the power of words.
Authenticity defines you. Words matter. Words herald the sounds of trumpets and the guns of war. Words heal and scar. Performance AND perception count.
