What would you consider your main sport and highlights?
Football. Highlight was undoubtedly been part of the coaching staff of Doncaster Rovers FC and playing in the League 1 Play off final at Wembley against Leeds Utd in May 2008. This was a game of huge importance under massive pressure. The consequences of winning/losing were at opposite ends of the spectrum. My role was to provide a motivational input and ensure that each and every player had a positive image about the outcome of the game.
Think about the type of mistakes that beginners in your sport would make; for instance by taking short term gains over long term losses. How would this manifest itself?
Younger (and by definition less experienced) players invariably will seek out short term gains. They are in fact often encouraged to do so because their time at a Club is so short. It is the very reason why football is in trouble – not just financially but on many levels. Young players are generally not encouraged to take responsibility – this manifests itself most visibly when a team is beaten convincingly and players no longer show for the ball. Their thinking is that if they don’t make a mistake they can’t be blamed for the result.
How can you prepare yourself to avoid this type of mistake? What separates an expert from a beginner?
You need to instil a sense of responsibility into each player. Everyone needs to play a part in how the game (match day) should evolve and each player needs to understand their role and the impact of their behaviour on the pitch. Attitude, endeavour and application become more important than technical ability. There is often very little to separate a technically gifted player from any other player (in a given league) but players with a great attitude stand out a mile.
How could you apply these skills or preparation to business?
It’s about understanding your core objectives and what part you play in the overall business. It’s about how you recognise your ‘value-add’ and ensure you contribute effectively. Seeing the bigger picture and understanding how other functions operate – how you can maybe support them when it’s required. This is like a striker (in football) recognizing that he can defend properly and help the team to not concede.
How would someone go about getting involved in your sport
Anyone can play football!!
To find out more about Jim, or to hire him as a trainer for your company, visit his page at Accelerate UK : http://www.accelerate.uk.com/jim_brearley.html