Validate Your Spot on the Team

Over the weekend I was reading about the professional ice hockey teams that were evaluating, and either trading or re-signing of a few of my favorite players. The articles by the sportswriters were focused on the player’s stats, their leadership traits, and how well they fit within the chemistry of the team, and in the locker room. And while the future looked bright for many of them, not so much for a couple of others. They had either lost a step or lost their way. So what does this have to do with printing?

The good news is that I don’t believe that how fast they can skate on a breakaway makes a difference in how a person can perform on their work-team. I do believe though, that we validate our spot on the team by what we bring to the party each day. Yes, some days will be better than others, I get it. But, the opportunity is to keep getting better at what we do, keep learning, and growing in our interest and passion for what we do. Make the time to read a book, listen to a podcast, watch a webinar, ask questions – there are so many resources available, on a variety of topics, and many are free. Ask yourself, “What am I working on this month to get better at what I do?”

As I meet great folks every week in this industry, it becomes easier to spot those who are excited about what they do and work hard every day to be the best that they can be. They are curious, they try new things, and they ask “why?” They are engaging and when they see a co-worker who is struggling, they attempt to lift them up. They care about others and understand that together, they play a role in making the team, or the company a success. This isn’t some rah-rah speech. It’s sharing my thoughts that the difference between earning a spot on the team is often a fine line that can be within your control, or at least can be influenced by your efforts.

As we enter the second half of the year, this is a topic that serves as a reminder that your efforts, and your decisions matter. If you have any thoughts on this post or would like to share what’s going on in your world, please get in touch with me or leave a comment below. Good luck, and let me know how you’re doing.

Mike Philie can help validate what’s working and what may need to change in your business. Changing the trajectory of a business is difficult to do while simultaneously operating the core competencies. Mike provides strategy and insight to owners and CEOs in the Graphic Communications Industry by providing direct and realistic assessments, not being afraid to voice the unpopular opinion and helping leaders navigate change through a common sense and practical approach. Learn more at www.philiegroup.com, LinkedIn or email at mphilie@philiegroup.com.