Adapting a strategy to people’s strengths, or not?

I first wrote a version of this in late-2023, when the mood at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was somewhat more positive than it is right now. And since then, Ruben Amorim has Manchester United following a similar philosophy to Ange Postecoglou, with comparably mixed results. So whilst this blog has a chance of dating extremely badly, I think the approach is interesting, whether it be in sport or business.

In working with and developing teams over the years, I have generally taken the approach of identifying people and structuring a team around them. I would have an idea of the job spec for a new role, but ultimately be flexible around the best candidates available. If good people came along with a slightly different skillset and strengths, I would adapt to suit as best as possible. This would then shape my view of what I needed next in the team. My reasoning is that if someone is working to within their strengths as much as possible, then they’re going to be happier and more productive in their jobs.

Postecoglou’s and Amorim’s approach is different. They have very clear philosophies around how football should be played, and will not waiver from that. No matter the personnel available, nor it seems the opposition, they drill a consistent approach in training. Players have to fit to the strategy, rather than the coach adapting to the strengths of those available. This non-compromising approach will provide consistent clarity of direction, and all players should become able to play in the way the manager wants.

In other words, consistency and clarity of approach and method, allowed the individuals in the team to understand their jobs, those of others around them, and adapt their game to become a much stronger group.

The jury is still very much out as to whether this will be successful for both teams (as a Spurs fan I hope so), but these lessons could be directly applicable in business as a leader, and has certainly got me thinking of it’s merits. Although I am unlikely to ever be in the position of having a Premier League budget, or be subject to football’s unique employment laws, to afford to be so non-compromising….