Page 18 - LRCC FOCUS August 2021

ECONOMIC CLUB

Michigan State University Football Coach Mel Tucker:

You Win with People

el Tucker’s first day on the job as head Tucker’s second order of business was to shift
football coach at Michigan State the culture, which is built on a foundation of
University was Feb. 12, 2020. As he accountability, attention to detail, teamwork,
M walked into the football room, he was sense of urgency, hard work and empathy. He also
greeted by a standing ovation from the players. He believes in adopting a common language and a
says his work as a leader began at that moment. commitment to be relentless in everything he does.
He immediately laid out his vision for his players.
Tucker says he believes in what he calls neutral
“I believe you cannot lead unless people know language, which he says involves taking the
where you stand,” said Tucker. “They have to know judgement and emotion out of our behaviors
what you are all about. They have to know what and focusing on the facts and next steps required.
the expectations are.” Shortly after assuming his position, the COVID
pandemic forced everyone associated with the
Tucker talked about leadership as a head football program away from campus and the cancellation
coach and how those skills translate to the of spring football. Tucker said his team had to
business world during remarks made to the immediately learn how to adapt to new technology
Lansing Economic Club on July 20. Tucker says and start having team meetings via Zoom within
his approach is to connect with people in plain a matter of days.
speak.
“We said on Friday you have to be up to speed by
“Once you do that, you connect with your Monday,” said Tucker. “When we go to do that,
organization day one in a real authentic way,” said there are no excuses, no explanations. It’s not like
Tucker. “Now, you’re off to the races.” we are going to ease into it and see how it goes. No.
We are hitting the ground running at the highest
Tucker told the group that ‘you win with people.’ level.”
When it came to assembling a staff, Tucker says
his emphasis is not centered on how well each Tucker told the Lansing Economic Club that
person can handle the “x’s and o’s.” Instead, Tucker says the focus is on the leaders need to lead from the front, cannot be afraid of failure, and be willing
quality of their character. to be vulnerable around their team. He emphasizes focus on facts and what
needs to be done next. n
“I need great men and women who are going to be role models,” said Tucker.
“I need leaders that care, who believe in the team, people who are loyal and
people I can trust.”

Relax.

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