Stack Your Team for Success: Lessons from the Pickleball Court

Have you ever felt like your team at work is just not clicking? Like no matter how hard you try, you’re not getting the results you want? Well, what if the solution was hiding in a seemingly unrelated place—the pickleball court? In my latest video, I explore how the “stacking” strategy from pickleball can revolutionize the way you lead your team.

The Pickleball Analogy

In pickleball, there’s a smart strategy called “stacking” where players line up on the same side of the court before the serve, and then shift to their ideal positions after the ball is in play. Why do they do this? To play to their strengths. For example, if one player has a killer forehand, stacking keeps it in the middle of the court. If someone’s left-handed, both forehands can be positioned where they need to be. It’s all about strategic positioning for maximum impact.

The Workplace Connection

Now, imagine applying this idea to your workplace. Instead of forcing your team into roles that don’t fit, what if you positioned them to play to their strengths? For example, if you have someone who’s amazing with customers but struggles with details, what if you paired them with someone who’s a detail wizard but hates customer interactions? Suddenly, you’ve got a dream team that’s crushing it!

Gallup actually proved this in their Strength-Based Leadership report. They found that teams that focus on strengths are way more productive and confident. So, why aren’t we “stacking” at work?

How to Apply Stacking to Your Team

• Identify Strengths: Start by recognizing the unique strengths and skills of each team member.
• Strategic Pairing: Pair team members with complementary strengths, such as someone who excels at customer service with someone who is a detail wizard.
• Position for Impact: Place team members in roles where they can shine and have the greatest impact.
• Focus on Strengths, Not Weaknesses: Instead of trying to “fix” weaknesses, focus on leveraging individual strengths.
• Foster Collaboration: Encourage team members to work together, playing to their individual strengths to achieve team goals.

Leaders who think like pickleball players don’t just win games—they build teams that thrive under pressure. It’s all about positioning, playing to strengths, and setting everyone up for success . The next time you’re on the court, think about how you can bring that same strategy to your team.

Ready to Transform Your Team?

Check out my latest video for a visual guide to stacking your team for success. It’s packed with actionable insights and real-world examples. And if you want to dive deeper into these lessons, grab a copy of Dr. K.’s book, Pickleball Leadership: Lessons from the Court to the Boardroom [4]. Trust me, your team will thank you!

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