First Who, Then What

“First Who, Then What” is a core principle advocated by Jim Collins in his influential book, “Good to Great.” This concept challenges the conventional wisdom of setting strategic goals (“what”) before assembling the team (“who”).

Collins argues that building a strong, high-performing team is the foundational step towards achieving greatness. He emphasizes that the right people, with their skills, values, and commitment, are the true drivers of success.

The analogy of a bus effectively illustrates this point. Imagine a bus journey. Before deciding on the destination (the “what”), you need to ensure you have the right people on the bus (the “who”). This includes individuals with the right driving skills, navigational expertise, and a shared understanding of the journey’s purpose.

By prioritizing the selection and development of the team, companies can:

• Navigate Challenges More Effectively: A strong team can adapt to unforeseen obstacles, find creative solutions, and overcome setbacks.
• Pursue Opportunities with Confidence: The right people will bring diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and the drive to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
• Build a Sustainable Foundation: A team aligned with the company’s values and goals will foster a positive and productive work environment, leading to long-term success.

In essence, “First Who, Then What” underscores the critical role of people in organizational success. By investing in building a strong team, companies can create a solid foundation for achieving their strategic objectives.