Allow me, if you will, to talk sports (better than talking about the weather, right?).
I recently wrote a column about staying positive, and I related it back to my disappointment in the Cleveland Cavaliers losing in the NBA Eastern Conference Finals to the Orlando Magic
I was distraught, as most Clevelanders were, but I took my own advice and have tried my best not to dwell on the negativity that attaches itself to Cleveland sports fans.
Today, there’s a buzz in the air surrounding the Cavaliers because the team has made a trade to acquire Shaquille O’Neil. Yes, Shaq is coming to Cleveland
With all the excitement around town, you’d think I’d be Mr. Happy Pants as well. Unfortunately, I’m not. But, I’m not being negative either, like some other tortured, perpetually pessimistic Cleveland fans
It’s simply my nature to be skeptical of things at first. My initial reaction upon hearing this surprising news was not excitement or joy. It was skepticism
Don’t get me wrong; I want a sports title in this city as much as the next guy, and Shaq may be the missing ingredient the Cavaliers need to bring home the hardware for the first time in the franchise’s history. But, excuse me if I’m a little bit hesitant to want to win that way
Think back to the 1997 World Series when the Cleveland Indians lost to the Florida Marlins in Game 7. Prior to that season, the Marlins signed a number of high-price free agents, and then quickly dismantled the team after winning it all. Many said Florida bought their World Series crown (some say they did it again when they won the 2002 Series, only to disband again)
Others have done this too over the years — bring in high-price talent for a short period of time, win a championship, then dismantle the team
Since drafting hometown hero LeBron James, the Cavaliers have steadily made improvements to his supporting cast with the goal of winning a championship (OK, multiple championships). They were on the verge this year, and again, having Shaq might push them over the top for the 2009-2010 season
But, I have to ask, is this the way LeBron James wants to win a championship? I know Clevelanders are hungry for a title, and clearly we’ll be happy to do whatever it takes to get one
Think about it. After Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA Finals this year, everyone said this championship meant the most to him of the four he’s won. Why? Because he did it without Shaq
Indeed, Kobe’s first three NBA titles were also Shaq’s first three NBA titles. When Shaq departed from the Lakers, it was said that Kobe couldn’t win without him
While in Miami, Shaq won his fourth NBA title, and Dwayne Wade won his first. Since Shaq’s departure from Miami, Wade and the Heat have not had the same success
My main rant: If the Cavaliers happen to win the NBA Finals in 2010 with Shaq, will people say they bought a championship — rather than built a world champion team — and that LeBron can’t win a title without Shaq
Sure, maybe I’m concentrating too much on what other people think. After all, a championship is a championship, right? Well, I’m not too sure about that
There’s nothing unethical about it. In sports, the goal is to win and you must acquire the talent that gives you the best chance to do that. But this simply doesn’t feel right
Think about your business. What lengths are you willing to go to ensure your company is No. 1? Are there certain things you won’t do simply because it doesn’t feel right
Much like in sports, business is a competition. To truly be a winner, there are no shortcuts. Each management decision must be made with the notion that it is good for the longevity of the company. That’s how dynasties are made
Think about the people in your company — the people you’ve hired and trained and promoted and rely on. Are you assembling a one-hit wonder organization, or a true team prepared to leave a lasting legacy
Tid Bits:
- How’s this for a cool event: This July, Bug Off Pest Control Center in New York is hosting a Business Leadership Cruise featuring Norm Cooper, Dean Stanbridge and Harvey Goldglantz — and I’ll be in attendance as well. This promises to be a fun and valuable seminar so, if you’re in the area, consider going
- Did I mention you can now follow us on Twitter? It’s true — Pest Management Professional magazine is now on Twitter. Follow us @PMPmagazine.
- While you’re becoming a follower on Twitter and you’re doing the whole social networking thing, don’t forget about Facebook. In addition to PMP Presents: The Forum, you can become a fan of Pest Management Professional magazine. Check it out here.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This post originally appears as my On the Record column on mypmp.net and in this week’s Buzz eNewsletter.
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Tags: Employees, Frank Andorka, On the Record, Positivity, Sports, Training
