Decisions surround us at every turn in the multifaceted business and entrepreneurship world. From the products we launch to the markets we enter, each decision shapes the trajectory of our journey. However, one decision arguably carries more weight than any other: the people we choose to align ourselves with.
The idea that "WHO you join is more important than WHAT you join" delves deep into the core of human-centered leadership. My first conversation with my mentor changed everything. He told me who is so much more important than what. I listened. He was SO right.
Organizational culture is often less about written rules and more about unwritten norms—how people interact, solve problems, celebrate successes, and handle failures. The individuals at the helm, the 'who', play a pivotal role in shaping this culture. Being in a toxic environment, no matter how lucrative the 'what' might seem, often leads to burnout, decreased productivity, and high attrition.
Markets shift, technologies evolve, and consumer preferences change. While a business's 'what' might be relevant today, it could be obsolete tomorrow. However, a visionary 'who' can pivot, adapt, and steer the ship in new directions, ensuring sustainability and growth even in turbulent times.
By choosing the right 'who', you're not just selecting a leader or a team, but also mentors, guides and partners in growth. The right people challenge you, helping you expand your horizons, learn and evolve professionally and personally.
In the uncertain world of business, trust is invaluable. When you choose based on 'who', you're prioritizing trustworthiness, integrity and reliability. Knowing that you can rely on your team, that they have your back, can be the difference between pushing boundaries fearlessly and holding back.
The 'what' of a venture—whether it's a groundbreaking product or a unique service—might seem compelling. However, even the most promising ventures can fall apart without a synergized team (the right 'who') that collaborates seamlessly. The collective energy of a cohesive team amplifies individual strengths and compensates for individual weaknesses.
Businesses face highs and lows, and during those low moments, the 'who' provides emotional support, ensuring that the team remains resilient. Being with empathetic and understanding individuals can make challenging times more bearable and successes more celebratory.
The 'what' often comes with immediate, tangible benefits—a lucrative deal, a promising market, or a cutting-edge product. However, aligning with the right 'who' ensures a focus on long-term vision and values, prioritizing sustainable growth over short-lived gains.
While a business's 'what'—the product, the market, the technology—might be its shiny facade, its 'who' forms its backbone. Jim Collins, the author of "Good to Great," emphasizes that it's about getting the right people on the bus (and the wrong people off the bus) before deciding where to drive it.
In the grand tapestry of leadership and entrepreneurship, the threads of human relationships, trust, and shared vision weave the most impactful patterns. Choose your 'who' wisely, for it's a decision that shapes not just the success of a venture, but also the journey itself.
