Last week I used a basketball analogy when I wrote about the importance of being able to rebound from not only a missed shot, but a professional failure. This week I want to continue with basketball and speak from a statement which I had the privilege of hearing legendary University of Tennessee Lady Vols basketball coach Pat Summitt state. In her speech to a large group of leaders, she said, “go with the player who wants the ball!” Her point was that on a basketball team there will be some players who are willing and eager to have the ball in their hands at crucial times. When the game is on the line and there are only a few seconds left in which to score the winning basket, it’s best to put the ball in the hands of the person who really wants it. By doing so, the chances of the team winning are far greater because you have a player-leader who isn’t afraid to step up and take the shot.
As a leader of volunteers, I deal with this often. I have recruited thousands of people over the course of my career and I can say with full confidence that the ones who I’ve had to talk into serving, or doing a specific task, are tremendously less likely to succeed and help the team win. Sure, I make every effort to motivate potential volunteers to join the team and step up to new heights. However, I know, for certain, that if I have to overly persuade, convince, coerce, bribe, or otherwise, someone into doing what needs to be done, no one is going to be happy with the outcome. They may perform sufficiently, but the end results won’t rise to the level of excellence we need, and it won’t be a positive experience for the volunteer, or me, for that matter.
When I look to recruit volunteers and staff for my team, I have to look at competence, chemistry, and of course, character, but I also have to look for charisma, confidence, and a “Can I please have the ball, coach?” drive. It’s so important the people who are on your team, especially in volunteer settings, really, really want to be there. In my work, I believe there is a special place for everyone to serve, a place where they will do so with great joy and passion. However, not everyone is suited for every role. Not everyone wants the responsibility of having the ball when the game is on the line. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Part of my job as a leader of volunteers (and staff) is to find the right fit for each person. Plus, they must want to be there. They must feel called to task. They must want the ball!
Lead well.