Why Consistency Beats Brilliance

I've had my fair share of experiences working with high-performing teams. While it's exhilarating to have team members who can solve complex problems with ease, I've come to realize that relying on these brilliant engineers can be a recipe for disaster.

The Myth of the Superstar

We've all heard the stories about mythical software developers who can single-handedly deliver extraordinary results. They're the ones who seemingly defy gravity, completing impossible tasks in record time and with unmatched quality. However, I'd like to propose that this myth is just that – a myth. In reality, these superstars often create more problems than they solve.

The Risks of Overreliance

When you rely too heavily on individual brilliance, you're left vulnerable to the unexpected. What happens when your superstar team member:

• Leaves the company for greener pastures?
• Gets hit by a bus?
• Takes an extended parental leave and can't be reached for weeks?

The consequences are often severe: delayed projects, lost momentum, and even catastrophic failures. The team's motivation also takes a hit. They might feel they don't need to make an effort because everything is handled.

A Better Approach: Consistency and Redundancy

As a manager, your ultimate goal should be to build a high-performing team that's consistent, reliable, and capable of delivering results without relying on individual heroics. This means focusing on creating a culture where:

• Succession planning is a priority
• Skills overlap ensures that no single person holds the keys to success
• Redundancy allows your team to adapt quickly when unexpected events occur

By prioritizing consistency and redundancy, you'll create an environment where your team can thrive even when faced with challenges. This approach also fosters innovation, as team members feel empowered to contribute their unique perspectives without feeling burdened by the weight of individual responsibility.

Embracing Emotional Complexity

Managing a team is not just about technical skills; it's also about understanding the complex emotional dynamics at play. As I've learned from experience, people are messy (emotionally speaking). They bring their life experiences and personal struggles into the workplace, making each team member uniquely valuable to your organization.

As a manager, it's essential to recognize this complexity and create an environment where team members feel comfortable contributing their perspectives without fear of judgment or repercussions. This, in turn, leads to higher innovation rates, as people feel empowered to share their ideas and collaborate with others.

Conclusion

While superstars can be exciting to work with, the reality is that relying on individual brilliance creates more problems than it solves. By focusing on building a consistent, redundant team with strong succession planning, skills overlap, and emotional intelligence, you'll create an environment where your team can thrive even in the face of adversity.

As we strive to build high-performing teams, let's remember that consistency beats brilliance every time.