Young leaders are not the future of your organization, they are the present. So the questions begs, how can the next generation of leaders add maximum value now?
Connor Bedard, the rookie phenom for the Chicago Blackhawks, is painting a picture for us of how. On Thursday, November 9, 2023, Bedard recorded four points in the Chicago Blackhawks 5-3 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. In doing so, he became the youngest player since 1944 to score four points in a game. See the highlights below.
As reported in this article from The Athletic, we learn five things young leaders can do to add value to their teams from Bedard.
Produce Positive Results
To add value to their teams, young leaders should make positive things happen. Leading up to Bedard’s historic performance, he had scored a goal in six of the first seven games. Consistent performance positions you for historic performance.
Anticipate Problems
Wayne Gretzky famously said, “Skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been.” Bedard skates in a similar fashion.
On his first goal, he sensed teammate Philipp Kurashev was going to pass from behind the net. Therefore, he skated to the anticipated location and chipped in his first goal.
Be Creative
Young leaders should provide creative solutions. Bedard’s first assist of the game was a no-look backhand pass to Tyler Johnson for a goal.
Work Hard
As a young leader, you may not have the institutional knowledge or experience as some of your teammates but you can make a significant impact through hard work and effort.
As an example, Bedard’s next assist came as a result of out-hustling Nikita Kucherov to a loose puck. He then made a fancy backhand pass to Nick Foligno for a score.
A simple way for young leaders to out-hustle others is by showing up 30-minutes early and staying 30-minutes late. By doing so, you will immediately separate yourself from others in your organization.
Be Smart
Mark Lazerus concluded his article on Bedard’s performance by writing, “No big shots. Just smart plays and quick hands.” Hang around smart people. Ask great questions. Focus on the fundamentals of your industry. Avoid unnecessary mistakes. These are basic things young leaders can do to add value.
Conclusion
If you produce positive results, anticipate problems and provide creative solutions, work hard, and be smart, you will likely be a young leader who adds value to your team.
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