The ‘Superstar Seduction'

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What It’s About: One of the possible curses afflicting a team is what I call contribution balance. That’s when “playing time” gets screwed up, and the high profile superstars end up participating way more than others. The important note here is, way more.

While winning the Super Bowl, the L.A. Rams’ three mega stars did show up, big time. They should have, because they are paid magnificently just to do that! However, American football, like any other team game, requires ALL players on the field, including back up players to make their contributions. If not, the team loses regardless how good the stars are!

I’ve watched my favorite NHL team this year, the Edmonton Oilers, have another roller coaster, frustrating season, and subsequently their coach recently got fired. There are likely numerous reasons, but one substantial issue was contribution balance. On average in the NHL, playing the forward position results in 15:37 minutes per game. The Oilers’ two superstar forwards, Conner McDavid and Leon Draistlt often played 26 minutes/game to date. The problem is that ice time is taken away from other players (although less skilled), who must contribute for the TEAM to sustainably win. The outcome of this type of imbalance can result in demoralized average players, and exhausted superstars, carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Perhaps you think these hockey player “snowflakes” are highly paid professionals, and should just shut up. Yet it’s way more than just the money. It includes the dignity of being valued, making a difference, and respect.

So What?: Great coaches balance contribution. Everyone on the team knows who the superstars are. Yet contribution balance is carefully metered out so that EVERYONE knows their roles, and that each person on the team, regardless of stature, must be successful in the role, for the TEAM to win. It is mostly a team game in the workplace. That doesn’t mean that the superstars will not be on the field or rink when the game is on the line. Of course they will, and they often end up making the big play. They just can’t do it without everyone else doing their part too.

Now What?: Do you know what your contribution balance is on your work teams? If you’re a player, are you getting your fair share? Why? Why not? Do you know what your differentiating role is? What’s your personal identity in the team? If you’re a coach, do you have the balance right? How do you know? What do your players think?

P.S., one of the first visible actions taken by the Oilers’ new head coach is playing time balance with all players, especially the stars. We’ll see, but I’m betting it makes a big difference to both team performance and morale.

Think Big, Start Small, Act Now,

- Lorne

One Millennial View: If you’re on a team, you want to play. Why else would you be there? While there are obviously superstars that shine through, the best seem to appreciate and utilize the collective contribution. Even Michael Jordan reportedly says he couldn’t win without Scottie Pippen and the rest of the Bulls.

- Garrett

Edited and published by Garrett Rubis

The ‘Superstar Seduction'

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