Great Teams Praise Behind Backs, Not Criticise

A note to young leaders.
Bad teams constantly criticise and undermine their colleagues behind their back.

Great teams never miss an opportunity to praise their colleagues behind their back.

At EG, I regularly receive texts from team members letting me know that a colleague has put in a great performance, has been kind to others or is showing great promise.

Whether the colleague is a peer, someone that reports to you or that you report to – if you’re impressed by something they’ve said or done, say so.
What do I think when I receive such messages by text or call? I think more highly of the person being praised, but even more so of the person giving praise.

The person who sent me the text messages below is now a senior leader at EG.
Leaders are patient, leaders are kind. They do not envy, they do not boast, they are not proud. They do not dishonour others, they are not self-seeking, or easily provoked.

Great leaders delight in honouring others.