Why You'd Want to Work for (or Play for) Miami Dolphins Head Coach Mike McDaniel

If you haven't had the chance to watch HBO's Hard Knocks featuring the Miami Dolphins, you're missing out on an emotionally intelligent leadership clinic. Head Coach Mike McDaniel consistently demonstrates Ei behaviors that elevate everyone around him. I know, I know . . .  I'm sure they don't show viewers everything, but based on what we can see in the series, during games, and during press conferences, here are my Top 10 Mike McDaniel Ei Leadership Behaviors:

1. He understand the impact his behavior has on others. It is obvious that Coach McDaniel understands his behavior matters. He chooses his words and actions carefully understanding and embracing his role as a leader. A specific example involves the understanding that football is imperfect. Rather than yelling about mistakes, he focuses more time on players move to the next play. 
2. He makes others feel appreciated through constant genuine and sincere feedback. He celebrates small wins every chance he gets. But it is not just fluff--it is truthful and specific. 
3. He notices when others need support and responds effectively. McDaniel has a knack for seeing when players are struggling, and he works to pick them up with true evidence of their ability and past performance. He works to remind them that their current circumstances are not the end of their story. 
4. He is open and honest about his thoughts, feelings, and opinions. He is willing to be vulnerable; he acknowledges others' fears and shares his own. His willingness to share his bout with addiction also falls into this category. Even with the press, he is genuine: he speaks his truth. 
5. He is open and honest about mistakes. There are many instances where McDaniel acknowledges he called a bad play or did not put players in a situation to be successful. He owns his mistakes, and I think players model his behavior. 
6. He consults others in decision-making. One example of this is his conversations with his offensive players where he asks them for ideas of effective plays and potential adjustments. He listens and takes action. That is the big thing: taking action. You can ask for opinions all day long, but if you never use any of them, people will stop giving them. 
7. He manages his emotions effectively in difficult situations. Things don't always go as planned. Even when things go wrong, we don't see McDaniel losing his cool. He is a stable, calming presence at practice and games. 
8. He demonstrates a positive, energizing demeanor. You'll see him celebrating success, singing, dancing, and having fun at work. Even at tough press conferences, he is able to energize the room. His fun-loving personality is evident in circumstances like his sprinting off the field from the cameras. 
9. He maintains a positive work environment. It is obvious that Coach McDaniel has fun at work and he tries to get others to find joy as well. He also gives his staff members opportunities to address the team. He shares the stage and models how a team works together through his coaching staff. 
10. He recognizes others’ hard work and achievements. McDaniel and his staff find ways to recognize the improvement and achievements. Cakes for big plays are one unique way they celebrate success. What you focus on, you get more of! 

What can we learn? There are many ways to foster a positive culture. Coach McDaniel works to create an environment where players and coaches can maximize their potential. He truly creates a positive upward spiral in the organization, and a lot of it stems from his high level of emotional intelligence.