Seventeen-year NFL veteran Ron “Jaws” Jaworski now spends his time on sports commentary shows and running several golf courses. He also serves as CEO of Ron Jaworski Golf Management. The former quarterback highlighted advice he received from coaches along the way, applying them to green industry professionals.
“The most important thing I learned early on was the dignity of work,” he said. “I really respect what you guys do.”
His seven “no-brainer principles” have guided him through 27 years as a sports analyst and current ownership of seven golf courses.
- You must really like people. “That seems obvious,” he said. “But you have to show them how much you care.”
- Be a good example. Jaworski learned from his friend Herman Edwards, former New York Jets player, to “sweep the corners.” He said it’s important to do the best work you can do so that others follow suit.
- Create an enjoyable work atmosphere. The culture you create will resonate with your employees, he said.
- Define the goal. A former coach of Jaworski’s used to hand out photos of the Vince Lombardi trophy to his players. “It wasn’t just that he wanted us to win a few games,” he said. “He wanted us to win them all and have that goal in our mind.” Jaworski noted his team did make it to the Super Bowl that year.
- Empower people.
- Build relationships. “Put down the phones,” he said. “Look people in the eye and talk to them.”
- Be yourself. Be sincere. “You build trust when you are sincere,” he said. “Tell your employees your culture and expectations in order to build that trust with your people.”
“Your business is critical,” Jaworski said. “You are doing incredible work and putting people to work. That’s what it’s all about.”