Why Attitude Outweighs Experience in Hiring Talent for Your Team

Hiring decisions can make or break a season. Athletic directors and coaches are often faced with the challenge of choosing between a candidate with extensive experience and another who might be less seasoned but possesses an unbeatable attitude. While experience is often seen as the safer bet, the most successful teams and organizations understand that attitude is the real game-changer.

The Case for Prioritizing Attitude

1. The Power of a Growth Mindset

‍A candidate with a positive attitude often embodies a growth mindset—the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset is critical in sports, where the ability to adapt, learn, and continuously improve is essential. Unlike experience, which is static, a growth mindset propels individuals to seek challenges, embrace feedback, and persist in the face of setbacks.

2. Attitude Shapes Culture

‍A team’s culture is the invisible force that drives performance, and attitude is its cornerstone. Players and coaches with a positive attitude contribute to a culture of resilience, cooperation, and mutual respect. This is particularly important in high-pressure environments where the stakes are high, and the margin for error is slim. An experienced candidate with a poor attitude can quickly become a detriment, undermining team morale and cohesion.

3. Attitude Fuels Commitment and Drive

‍Experience can certainly provide a foundation, but it’s attitude that fuels the commitment to go above and beyond. Athletes and coaches with the right attitude are often the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave. They are willing to put in the extra effort, whether it’s through additional training, studying game footage, or supporting teammates. This level of dedication is infectious and can elevate the performance of the entire team.

4. Adaptability and Learning Potential

‍The sports world is constantly evolving, with new strategies, technologies, and methodologies emerging regularly. A candidate with a strong attitude is more likely to adapt to these changes and be open to learning new skills. They’re not tied to the way things have always been done and are willing to innovate and try new approaches. This adaptability is invaluable in keeping a team competitive in a dynamic landscape.

5. Long-Term Potential

‍When you hire for attitude, you’re investing in long-term potential. Experience might deliver immediate results, but attitude ensures sustained growth and development. A candidate with the right attitude will continue to improve and evolve, making them an asset not just for the current season but for many seasons to come.

Balancing Experience with Attitude

This isn’t to say that experience should be disregarded entirely. The key is finding the right balance. When reviewing candidates, consider how their experience complements their attitude. A seasoned coach or player who also demonstrates a positive attitude is, of course, an ideal hire. However, if forced to choose between the two, attitude should be the deciding factor.

It’s easy to default to hiring based on experience. But the true differentiator between good teams and great ones often lies in the attitudes of the people within them. By prioritizing attitude over experience, athletic directors and coaches can build teams that are not only skilled but also resilient, adaptable, and primed for long-term success. After all, skills can be taught—attitude is inherent.

Take Action

As you prepare for the next hiring decision, take a moment to evaluate what you truly value in your team members. Ask yourself: Is this candidate willing to grow, contribute positively to the team culture, and commit to the journey ahead? If the answer is yes, you’ve found a winner, regardless of their experience level.