Robert Griffin III's Leadership Skills Surface at NFL Combine

This past week the National Football League held its annual evaluation for potential draftees in Indianapolis at the NFL combine. While there was tons of talent and great players, no one stood out more than Heisman Trophy winner, Robert Griffin III. While his athletic skills running, jumping and lifting were very impressive, the real key to his meteoric rise in the view of coaches and management came from the realization of his tremendous leadership potential and the reality that he has an incredible presence. Not since Peyton Manning has another player exhibited the traits that every franchise is looking for to lead their team.

Entering last week everyone was familiar with RG III’s throwing arm and his track star speed, but few really had experienced his unique set of leadership talents. In analyzing his interviews, it became so apparent that Griffin is the total package. In trying to breakdown why the former Baylor star came across so well, I identified three C’s that I believe are the foundation of effective leadership.

Confidence---Griffin demonstrated a confident attitude where he clearly believes he can be a very successful quarterback in the NFL who will lead his team to championships. He did this in a way where he was confident but not cocky. He was self-assured without being arrogant. People want to follow individuals who they believe can deliver a result that is beneficial to the organization (team) and to the individuals themselves. One of my favorite quotes for leaders is by Alexandre Dumas:

“A person who doubts himself is like a man who would enlist in the ranks of his enemies and bear arms against himself. He makes his failure certain by himself being the first person to be convinced of it.”

Communication—Hearing Griffin during his interview on the NFL network, the Copperas Cove High School graduate was not only articulate but also original. His style and composure were off the chart believable. Additionally he was very refreshing and avoided the traditional clichés that so often surface when people are not really communicating but just regurgitating what they think people want to hear or what they have heard other people say. The dynamics of the interaction with host Rich Eisen were both believable and entertaining. You really left the show with the impression they were engaged in meaningful dialogue.

Charisma—Defined as personal magnetism, Griffin’s personality exploded during the interview. While being confident, he also was extremely likable. For NFL franchises, likability of their stars is extremely important, as research has found that likability is incredibly important in building a positive brand. His smile and demeanor was reminiscent of one of the nation’s most likable celebrities (Will Smith). People want to follow leaders that they like and enjoy being part of a team that works together in an atmosphere of cordiality not conflict. RG III has style, presence, enthusiasm, believability and energy; all important pieces of charisma. While some leaders have succeeded with limited charisma, having it makes the journey much easier.

It will be interesting to see which NFL team has been most impressed with Griffin and how much they are willing to invest in finding the future face of their franchise.