A Concert Lesson in Leadership: What Brett Young Taught Me This Summer

This summer, I had the unexpected delight of attending a last-minute concert by one of my favourite country artists, Brett Young. As anticipated, it was a fantastic show, but what I didn't expect was a profound leadership lesson that I would carry with me long after the music stopped.

About 40 minutes into the performance, Brett made an announcement: "This is the part of the show where you get to meet the rest of the band," he said with a grin. "Now, I know all the other bands tell you THEY have the best musicians, but they're wrong, because I do!" With that, Brett casually wandered over to an easy chair on the side of the stage and settled in to enjoy the show.

One by one, each band member stepped into the spotlight, showcasing their incredible talents. One performed their own newly released song, while others demonstrated their mastery of their instruments in various ways. Each artist in the band had their moment to shine, captivating the audience with their talent. After every band member had their turn, Brett returned to the stage and proudly declared, "I told you I have the best band!"

For me, this was a masterclass in leadership. Surround yourself with "A players" at the top of their game and let them shine. Don't limit them, don't reclaim the spotlight, and don't worry about how it reflects on you as the leader—just celebrate their greatness. It was brilliant and refreshing.

Imagine if more business leaders adopted this approach, consistently showcasing their best-in-class teams. What impact would it have on the customer's perception of the organization and its leadership? For me, the experience elevated my respect for both the band and Brett. There wasn't just one superstar; there were five, all giving their best. I thought, "Wow, Brett must be an amazing leader to attract such talented people."

So, next time you find yourself leading a sales meeting or presenting to customers, take a cue from Brett. Let your superstars shine and celebrate their excellence. You might be surprised at the positive impact it has on your team and your audience.