In a recent article in Harvard Business Review, 7-time Super Bowl winning quarterback Tom Brady was interviewed on the art of leading teammates. One of the keys to doing this well, according to Brady, is showing appreciation for unsung colleagues. He says the following:

“At [University of] Michigan, we had a great fullback named Chris Floyd. On running plays, his primary job was to block the linebackers and create holes for the running back with the ball. It’s hard work. It’s very physical and taxing on your body, not to mention that there’s not a lot of glory in it. In football, the camera follows the ball carrier, and blockers tend to go unrecognized. But [starting quarterback] Brian Griese made a point to tell people: ‘There’s nobody I’d rather have in the backfield with me than Chris Floyd.’ The recognition meant everything to Chris. After hearing that, he walked around like he was 10 feet tall. That made a huge impression on me. I began making a habit of giving credit to players in those under appreciated roles – not just because they deserved it but also to point out to others that no player should go unnoticed…Good team leaders go further and find ways of recognizing those who don’t play on the field yet support us in less visible ways. Football teams have big support staffs – trainers, the people who prepare our meals and clean the locker room and wash our uniforms, among others. I found that a simple high five or word of appreciation means so much. To be a great team, everyone needs to feel valued – and it’s up to the leaders of the team to make sure that happens.“

Who are the unsung heroes on your team?

Who contributes value to the team but might go unnoticed?

What members of the team might not feel appreciated?

What can and will you do to recognize them?