Time has value. Can we use it better? Do our players listen or do they tune us out? Do they give thoughtful answers?
Impart values and value to them. Before the game yesterday, I asked them to volunteer a few 'core values' of our program. The first three were: "Teamwork", "Improvement", and "Learning".
Don't talk just to talk. Add value and reinforce values.
1. Have an agenda and stick to it. Education changes behavior. Be specific about meeting goals and 'corporate' process. Be productive.
2. Start and end promptly. Respect other people's time.
3. Good leaderships requires good followership. Involve participants; "you matter." Your ideas and your questions have meaning.
4. Promote best practices. Believing 'our way' is the only way is arrogant and vain. Ego only limits your ability to grow. Think about Genghis Khan's conquests and his mandate to adopt the best technology and practices from conquered peoples.
5. Use powerful stories. In the 1993 NCAA finals, Michigan players were distracted before the final play, some failing to listen to coach Steve Fisher's warning that they had no timeouts. Chris Webber frantically looked for a pass receiver and players on the bench urged him to call the fatal timeout.
Summarize briefly what the meeting accomplished, how the agenda and discussion affected policies and process. Leave on a high note.
