By Greg Whitesell, Marketing Director
Our headquarters sits just two blocks from Bank of America Stadium, and during football season our office is filled with Panther blue every Friday. Needless to say, that blue looked a little different today after Panthers legend Luke Kuechly announced his retirement. Our morning discourse naturally evolved from sadness into a Luuuuuuke love fest, during which we discussed some of our hero’s best qualities and how we, as employees, can carry a little bit of Luke with us each day. We also talked about how, as recruiters, we can identify candidates who bring those same qualities – and a little Luke-ness – to your team.
Leadership
How many times in 8 years have we seen Luke point out directions to teammates on the field, pat the back of a rookie who faltered or react with elation over someone else’s stellar play? It was clear from the beginning that Luke was going to be a force on the field, in the locker room and in the community.
A 2016 article on the blog catcrave.com noted: “Kuechly does all the things that a good leader does. He is one of those first one in and last one out type players. He is in the weight room lifting and keeping his body fit for the rigors of playing in the NFL. He spends time in the film room so that he is up on every team that they play against.”
Throughout his career, Luke regularly visited children at area hospitals and served meals to those less fortunate, including before the Big Game in Minnesota in 2018 (in a hair net, no less). When asked about his charitable work on that occasion by mandatory.com, Luke stated that the driver for his giving back was: “knowing you made a big difference in their day. To see them smile, makes me smile.”
Putting Leadership into Practice
So how can you apply those same qualities in the workplace? First, remember that a leader leads by example. Whether or not your job title denotes you a leader, you can follow Luke’s lead and give it 100%.
Commit to continuous learning, keep improving and actively help your teammates grow. Give praise freely, and offer constructive feedback whenever it’s appropriate. Next, don’t be afraid to step up. Look for challenges, find the answers and implement them. Finally, get involved. Whether it’s business and professional networking groups, community organizations or other ways, being around other people focused on a common goal just makes you a better person and a better employee.
Work Ethic
Sports Illustrated once asked Luke about his approach to being an incoming freshman at Boston College. The answer? “Be nice to everybody, ask questions and work hard.” That quote speaks volumes. Any Panther fan (or foe) can tell you about Luke’s work ethic. Whether he was studying film. leading team workouts or battling back from injuries, Luke consistently demonstrated the determination of someone who refused to quit.
Now ask yourself: are you someone who sets both long and short term goals? Are you determined to limit distractions and not let anything keep you from being successful? Are you the type to finish your work and ask your boss what else you can do or your teammates how you can help? We’re sure those are all things Luke would do, and you can too.
Respect – A Legacy Beyond Football
Luke respected the game, the officials, his teammates, his opponents and the responsibility that came with being a role model. In return, he earned the respect of others. Just take a look at reactions around the league on Twitter since he made the announcement:
“Not just the best player I’ve ever seen, but the best person I’ve ever met.” – Christian McCaffery
“I’ll always appreciate the impact he has had on my life.” – Greg Olsen
“Much respect for who you are and what you represent!” – Mark Ingram
“You are the embodiment of leadership & dedication. – Charles Tillman
“I’d teach my son to be like you” – Tre Boston
Just like on a playing field, respect in the workplace is earned. Teammates and competitors admired Kuechly because he mastered the game, respected its rules and carried himself with professionalism – even during adversity. When the time came to retire, they respected his decision to begin a new chapter.
Now think about your own career. What kind of teammate are you? Do you reflect on your performance, strengths, weaknesses and needs to make tough decisions regarding your career and your future?
Today’s article on Panthers.com quoted Panthers owner David Tepper as saying: “Luke is a once-in-a-generation player and someone we want every member of this organization to emulate.” The article goes on to say: “Teammates want their kids to be like Kuechly. Coaches want their sons to be like Kuechly. High school football players want to be Kuechly.”
We’d add that businesses want employees with those same qualities. Leadership. Work ethic. Respect. Luke gave us a powerful example of what those traits look like every day, and he’s given all of us more than enough inspiration to strive for them ourselves.
