The True Value of A+ Human Beings in Leadership and Management

Gary Vaynerchuk’s recent post struck a chord with me: “A+ human beings with B- skills always beat A+ talent with a C- personality and attitude.” It sparked a whirlwind of thoughts, inspiring me to dive deeper into the subject. So here I am, espresso in hand, extending an invitation for an engaging coffee table discussion. Why not grab your favorite beverage and join me in this exploration of character over competence?

Our workplaces are a vibrant tapestry, woven from the threads of diverse schedules—hybrid, remote, and on-site. Each individual contributes their unique blend of skills and personality, enriching the fabric of our

organization. Echoing a sentiment by Gary Vaynerchuk that resonates deeply with me as a leader, I believe the character of our colleagues is paramount. This character is often the defining factor, even more so than their skill set, in contributing to a thriving company culture.

In my journey as a leader, I’ve steered through the challenges of managing a remote team that’s as diverse as they come. It’s clear to me that attitude is everything—it can lift a whole team to new heights. Sure, you can teach skills, sharpen them, even perfect them, but what counts is what’s at the core: a person’s values, their dedication, and how well they play with others. That’s the foundation of any great team. And let’s face it, in times when we’ve seen folks leave and our team size shrinks (which is where my team is at), this truth hits home even harder. We might be fewer in number now, but our spirit is stronger, our voices carry further, and our impact? It’s never been more vivid.

An A+ human being brings more to the table than just competence. They bring a willingness to learn, a readiness to support their colleagues, and the ability to share where they are struggling and find ways to weather the storms of these challenges. These individuals understand that success is not just about meeting targets but also about how they contribute to the team’s dynamics and morale.

Conversely, individuals with exceptional skills but lacking in interpersonal qualities can achieve their tasks with proficiency, yet this may come at a significant cost to team unity. Their presence can create discord, diminish the spirit of teamwork, and impede our collective journey toward success. Over time, such behavior can erode the very essence of our team’s camaraderie and negatively impact our organizational ethos. The irony lies in their self-perception; these individuals often believe they are a positive force within the team. When queried about their contribution, they genuinely perceive themselves as a beacon of positivity. Ultimately, it is the harmonious blend of skill and spirit that propels our teams forward.

As leaders, it’s our responsibility to nurture environments where A+ human beings can thrive. This means recognizing and rewarding not just the results but also the behaviors that contribute to a positive and productive workplace. As an example... Our team celebrates each other's wins, no matter the size. This includes both personal and professional wins. This could be a quick message through Microsoft Teams, an announcement on our stand-up meetings, or a quick email that I send out with a handful of wins to celebrate. It’s about creating a culture where empathy, respect, and teamwork are valued just as highly as technical prowess.

Leadership transcends the mere act of navigating the organization; it’s about ensuring each team member feels valued and heard. Initiating this journey can be as simple as dedicating 15 minutes each week for one-on-one check-ins with your team. These sessions are pivotal—they keep leaders attuned to their associates’ needs and align with the team’s pulse, even in the leader’s absence. More than that, they demonstrate genuine care and a commitment to each team member’s success. By embodying the essence of an A+ human being, we set a standard for our teams to aspire to. We become the compassionate mentors, the coaches who inspire growth, and the managers who recognize every achievement, big or small.

To summarize, the wisdom shared by Gary Vaynerchuk is a powerful reminder of what truly makes a team exceptional. It’s not just the individual brilliance but the collective character that defines our success. As we lead and manage diverse teams, let’s prioritize the cultivation of A+ human beings, for they are the ones who will consistently outshine and outperform, creating a legacy of excellence and humanity.