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What does a strong bench look like in action?
Home » Leadership » Building Your Bench » What does a strong bench look like in action?What does a strong bench look like in action?
A strong bench is characterized by both strong leadership and bold action. The leader builds, develops, and supports his/her bench and the bench responds with creativity and productivity.
Former governor and presidential cabinet member Tom Ridge said, “Each person on a team is an extension of your leadership.” A strong bench begins with a good leader. If the leader sets and lives by high standards on an ethical and business level, the bench is more likely to follow suit.
As a leader of your bench, empower your team and then free them to work. Set clear expectations and then trust their expertise and creativity. A strong bench has a leader who trusts his team and then, after the job is done, praises his team—in public and in private. The bench and the leader have great communication, which allows for both constructive criticism and continual feedback.
A strong bench responds to good leadership and flourishes under it. Ideas bounce off each other and teamwork abounds. Baseball great Babe Ruth said, “You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the club won’t be worth a dime.” Get the best group of people you can, but make sure they are willing to work together for a common goal.
When a problem comes up, turn to your bench and receive several good options, or perhaps a consensus of the best choice. From time to time, seek suggestions from your bench on how to make changes and where to take risks. Surround yourself with quality people and quality workers—men and women of character, competence, and dedication. This is the kind of bench that will help you and your company to thrive.
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