What the Cubs can teach businesses about winning with rookies

If there's one thing the business community can learn from the Chicago Cubs this season, it's that you don't need experience to win.

Kris Bryant, Jorge Soler, Addison Russell and Kyle Schwarber are all rookies. ROOKIES! Aside from a few games the previous season, they hadn’t played in the major leagues. Now these kids (the oldest is 23) are playing against men who have been doing this for years. A lot of young players are nervous, but these “kids” value the challenge, thrive under pressure and have led the Cubs to their first postseason appearance since 2008.

The same thing can happen when new employees are challenged in the workplace. These are reasons rookies can help companies succeed:

1. Rookies can take on big roles.

Historically, people have said teams can play one or two rookies, but that veteran leadership is needed. The same has been said in business….but why?! Bryant, Soler, Russell and Schwarber were thrown into the fire and forced to figure out how to win while adjusting to the Majors. They were given big positions and stepped up to the plate (literally and figuratively). The Cubs recognized their potential, gave them more responsibility and allowed them to play to their strengths. They were never held back or told they couldn't accomplish something just because they're rookies. 

The same can occur in the office. If you believe recent grads are ready for the challenge, let them have big roles in important projects. Don't be afraid to delegate extra work. Give them a chance to show what they can really do, then recognize their hard work. If they're really excelling, promote them. You don't need to follow a structured timeline.

Create a culture where performance, not just experience, is recognized and rewarded. If your team of experienced professionals was so great, they would close every deal and never make a mistake. We all know that doesn’t happen, so give the kids a chance.

Click here to read more.

Photo: Steve Broer / Shutterstock.com