Tara VanDerveer, former coach of Stanford University’s women’s basketball team, is the most winning college basketball coach in history—men’s or women’s.
I recently had the pleasure of interviewing the legendary coach for my podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart, and she shared with me profound insights on leadership, communication, and team dynamics. VanDerveer’s advice offers valuable lessons that transcend the basketball court and can be applied to workplaces across the country.
Here are four key leadership lessons that women’s basketball can teach business leaders, according to VanDerveer.
Build trust by making others feel heard
VanDerveer emphasizes that building trust and openness are foundational to any successful team. In her words, “Everyone is someone’s sister, and to really care about the players you coach, to really care about the people you work with . . . is the most important thing.”
VanDerveer believes what a coach or boss says really matters. She told me she often hears from players from long ago who reach out to reflect on the advice she had given them. From VanDerveer’s experience, people perform best when they feel appreciated. We all want to feel that we make a difference. She believes this is true in the workplace and on the court.
For business leaders, this means creating an environment where team members feel valued and heard. Establishing a culture of trust encourages open communication, allowing employees to feel comfortable sharing their ideas and feedback. This not only strengthens team cohesion but opens up opportunities for innovation and risk taking.
Actionable takeaway: Regularly check in with your team members on a personal level, just as VanDerveer does with her players. Make it a point to understand their concerns and aspirations, and provide constructive feedback that helps them grow. Implement regular one-on-one meetings where employees can discuss their goals, challenges, and receive feedback in a supportive environment.
Prioritize efficient communication
During high-stakes moments, such as a tight game or a critical business meeting, VanDerveer’s strategy is to focus on “putting out the biggest fire.” She advises prioritizing the most pressing issues and communicating them concisely.
VanDerveer also highlights the importance of coaching during practice, not just during games. This approach ensures that players are well-prepared, understand their roles, and are comfortable receiving feedback from coaches, which translates to better performance under pressure.
Actionable takeaway: In your next high-pressure situation, identify the top two or three key issues that need immediate attention. Communicate these priorities clearly and succinctly to your team, ensuring that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. For example, in a crisis meeting, focus on the immediate problem, outline the steps to resolve it, and delegate tasks accordingly. Additionally, ensure that your team is well-prepared through regular training and scenario planning, so they can perform confidently when it matters most.
Embrace routine and consistency
VanDerveer says her success is partly attributed to the routines she would establish for her team. From consistent practice schedules to regular feedback sessions, routines help her players know what to expect and prepare accordingly. In a business context, establishing consistent processes and routines can enhance productivity and reduce uncertainty.
Actionable takeaway: Develop and maintain regular routines within your team. This could include weekly check-ins, consistent feedback mechanisms, and structured workflows. Consistency in these practices helps team members feel more secure and focused. For example, start each week with a team meeting to set priorities and end with a wrap-up meeting to review progress.
Use positive reinforcement
VanDerveer’s coaching philosophy also highlights the importance of positive reinforcement and calculated risk-taking. She shares that acknowledging and celebrating small victories can boost team morale significantly. Furthermore, taking calculated risks and learning from the outcomes can drive innovation and growth.
“Our challenge in the game is not to necessarily beat the other team,” says VanDerveer. “The other team is there to help us be a great team. It’s to be the best team we can be.”
Actionable takeaway: Make it a habit to recognize and celebrate your team’s achievements, no matter how small. Implement a system where successes are regularly acknowledged in team meetings. Encourage your team to take informed risks, and create a safe space for them to learn from any failures. For instance, after a project completion, highlight both successes and areas for improvement in a constructive manner.
VanDerveer’s leadership insights provide a rich source of inspiration for business leaders aiming to build strong, cohesive teams. By fostering trust, prioritizing clear communication, establishing consistent routines, and offering positive reinforcement, leaders can drive their teams towards success. Embracing these practices not only enhances team performance but also creates a supportive and dynamic work environment.
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