Be Explicit In How You Lead

Sometimes it's not what you say or do when you lead; it's what you don't say and don't do.

Sean McVay, head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, acquainted himself with this lesson this past season after winning the Super Bowl last year. In an interview with Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic, McVay said:

“I have an ability to bring people with me in this positive energy and this aura. But I also believe that it can be equally destructive, even if I am not saying anything. The frustration, the body language, guys feel –that leads to them being tighter and not going and playing the way they are capable of.”

McVay’s admission is a humbling one. As a go-go coach still in his mid-thirties, McVay is more a firebrand than a velvet glove. But, as his statement reveals, McVay is paying attention to how he comes across to others. When players come to expect praise or even an admonition and do not receive it, then they grow wary.

According to McVay, the Rams' defense did fine this year; the offense – McVay’s specialty – fell apart. Their demise was more than the loss of veteran star quarterback Matthew Stafford. McVay, known for being a control freak, held himself apart from the team, and its performance suffered.

Communicate clearly

So often, nuance is lost in leadership. What matters are consistency and direction. In short, be true to your leadership modality. Authenticity matters.

Set clear expectations. This statement is so obvious it is too often forgotten. It is essential to let the team know what is expected of them. Team objectives are often stated, but expectations for behavior are not communicated. Make it clear how people are supposed to work together and collaborate – as part of their jobs!

Body language speaks volumes. Employees, to quote Maya Angelou, remember how you make them feel. You let people know you are displeased if you look annoyed or irritated. Crossed arms radiate defiance. Rolling of the eyes means, "you can't be serious." An excellent way to check on body language is to ask a trusted colleague to watch how you speak and listen.

Keep true to form. I once heard a story of a manager who posted a smiley face on his door when he was in a good mood and a frowny face when he was in a bad mood. It was not subtle, but it communicated clearly what the boss was feeling on any given day.

Changing it up

McVay noted that some of the team's spirit returned when quarterback Baker Mayfield took over. New to the team and without any practice before his first appearance, Mayfield led them to victory. McVay said the fun in coaching returned after the team was out of contention. The pressure was off.

Keep in mind that leaders can and do change stripes. For example, avuncular-style leaders can become more demanding in times of crisis. And conversely, strict disciplinarian leaders loosen up in similar situations. The changeup in style is designed to keep the team focused. What is important is to communicate so that people know what you are doing and why.