The Courageous Leaders Podcast

Arran Cruickshanks: Taking Rugby Into the Workplace

Joanna Howes Season 15 Episode 115

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0:00 | 36:51

In this episode, we dive into the parallels between rugby and the workplace to uncover how competitive spirit and teamwork in sports can drive exceptional performance in professional settings.

I was joined by the brilliant Arran Cruickshanks, Managing Director at mccglc and former professional rugby player, to explore these concepts in depth.

Key Questions Discussed:

  • How can we use the competitive spirit of sport to drive performance in teams?
  • How can we understand team motivation to achieve the vision, akin to how rugby players are motivated to win?
  • Rugby players have nutritionists, coaches, physios and a complete plan for their week, how important is structure to succeed? 


We also discuss:

  • Have companies become too accommodating when dealing with people challenges 
  • Setting the expectations that there are going to be tough days and how to navigate them
  • Why a vision needs to be clear and to check everyone is aligned to have a seat on the bus
  • Exploring how far into the future it is practical to set a vision in today's rapidly changing world.
  • The difference between being on the Rugby pitch and in training on how the team works together
  • Being the final decision maker and taking on that responsibility
  • The perception of having it all together but inside you don’t
  • Being okay to reach out for help


00:00 Importance of leaders maintaining consistent vision despite changes.

05:18 Scheduled days challenged motivation and leadership style.

09:09 Competition drives improvement and identifies reliable players.

11:39 Merit-based promotions ensure employee growth and fairness.

14:06 Balancing work commitments with communication and understanding.

18:28 Put feelings aside, buy into the vision.

22:43 Transitioned from project management to client relations.

26:38 Workplace stress and expectations need to change.

27:29 Balancing owner's needs and protecting the team.

32:49 Regret over risk aversion, need for change.

34:25 Motivating staff to find job satisfaction.

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