In 1986, I made my biggest (at the time) and one of my best investments: a Panasonic Sport DX bike (yes... Panasonic). It's still rolling strong, surviving the test of time. This bike has taught me a thing or two about endurance, reliability, and the occasional need for a tune-up.
Much like my trusty bike, getting the most out of our teams requires regular maintenance. You can't just ride them hard and expect top performance without a little TLC. Keep the gears oiled (aka communication flowing), adjust the brakes (provide support when needed), and don’t forget to pump up the tires (recognition goes a long way).
Of course, even a vintage bike needs the occasional upgrade—sometimes an extra-cushioned seat or fancy yellow handlebar tape make all the difference. Similarly, refreshing our teams with new tools, skills, or perspectives can take them to the next level.
And just as my old Panasonic keeps cruising along, with a bit of care, our teams can keep delivering high performance year after year. By fostering an environment where team members feel valued and empowered, we extend their professional ‘lifespan’ and enhance their contributions. Sure, I’ve swapped out a few parts along the way, but the frame—the core—remains rock solid. The challenge now is just keeping up with my kids on rides.
Bike analogy aside... How are you empowering your teams to deliver high performance on a consistent basis?