How to Create a Winning Culture in the Business of Tennis

By Karen Ronney

The business of tennis is not about the sport itself but it’s about the people who participate in it. It takes outstanding tennis professionals who are also great leaders to run a successful business. The bottom line is building a solid team that is prepared to be flexible and adapt to changing times.

Digging deeper, a great team is made of individuals who share the same goals, objectives and strategies. This sounds good but how can you make it happen at your club or facility? According to Dimitris Kollaros, of Blue Chip Sports Management, there are several steps to take in building a strong foundation. Important questions to start with include the following:

What is your GOAL or Mission Statement? Do you know your goals and have you shared them with your team? Try to create an overall Goal and start by developing a Mission Statement in 25 words or less. This is critical to really understanding what you are trying to achieve. Share that goal with your supervisor and those you manage.
Who are the players on your team? Every coach, manager, director of tennis or pro has a team. Identify them and list their key roles in your business. Now think about how you can develop it to be better? To flush out details consider categories of Function, Duties, Expectations and Standards.
To create a strong team, develop individual members: Determine what each member of your team brings to your business and create individual goals for improvement. Share those goals and track response to success and improvement. This boils down to creating standards of excellence that make your program one of the best. It could be as simple of sending thank you emails after members attend events, organizing space or folding towels in a specific manner of presentation.
Your greatest asset is YOU! Take the time and invest in yourself. In addition to the above points, it means continuing your education, recharging your brain, body and spirit, eating and sleeping well, exercising and relaxing. Consider getting up 15 minutes early and meditate to clear your mind while focusing on your growth, health and progress. Expand your knowledge, watch webinars, attend conferences and read books of interest. Work out. Get strong mentally and physically.

Wrap up:

To build a winning team you need to work together as a unit and individually in your job. Start where you are and grow from that point. Be a better leader and inspire others to do the same. If your team is evolving and working toward shared goals, anything is possible.