Have you got the right diverse personalities on your team?
Throughout my 19-year professional career, I have played alongside numerous players and teams, but the most effective teams were always the most diverse. Diversity does not solely refer to nationality but, more importantly, to the personalities within the team.
Having too many of the same personality types means that we miss the right balance. Different personality types bring unique strengths and perspectives. Understanding these types can significantly enhance team dynamics and collaboration. Here’s how I envision a high-performing football team:
1. Goalkeepers tend to be a mix of Planner/Strategist and Analyst/Evaluator. However, most are also a touch crazy!
2. Defenders usually consist of Planners/Strategists and Doers/Implementers. They organise the defensive line, anticipate opposing attacks, and communicate effectively. These physical enforcers also tackle, block shots, head, and clear the ball as they implement the defensive strategy.
3. Midfielders are often a blend of Communicator/Collaborator and Doer/Implementer. They link attack and defence, facilitating play, relaying instructions, and maintaining team cohesion. They run tirelessly, passing, intercepting, and creating scoring opportunities (hopefully!).
4. Forwards and strikers typically embody a mix of Innovator/Creative and Doer/Implementer. Forwards frequently require creativity and improvisation to find space, outmanoeuvre defenders, and score goals. They also usually take risks. Executing attacks, shooting, making runs, and challenging defenders are all action-oriented tasks.
5. The Captain often displays traits from multiple types, particularly Communicator/Collaborator and Planner/Strategist. They are the team’s voice, building morale, resolving conflicts, and promoting team unity. They frequently contribute to tactical decisions, collaborating with the coach to devise game plans and adapt strategies as necessary.
6. Others can include the “Quiet Leader”, the “Motivator”, or maybe a “Problem-solver”.
A team with too many strategists might lack decisive action, whereas a team comprised solely of doers might lack direction. The coach’s role is crucial in recognising and harnessing these varied personalities to create a cohesive and effective unit.
What’s your team look like?
#Teamwork #Diversity #Leadership