The Value of the 'Other Guy'
Mar 12, 2025
Hey business owner, you want to be Michael Jordan. The GOAT. The shot-caller. The leader who makes everything happen. TBH I want that for you too. It's the standard of excellence you need to win the game of building something that grows and succeeds That's the mentality that's going to get things done.
But here’s the thing: even MJ didn’t win championships alone.
The Bulls didn’t dominate because Jordan did everything himself. They won six titles because they had a system—the Triangle Offense. And they had Scottie Pippen, the ultimate “Other Guy,” making sure the game didn’t fall apart every time Jordan blinked. Without Pippen? No rings. Without the Triangle? Just one really tired baller trying to do everything himself.
For the last 15+ years I’ve been a certified “other guy”, and I’m obsessed with that role.
The Reality of Doing It All Yourself
When business owners try to be Jordan and Pippen and Phil Jackson, here’s what happens:
❌ Every decision lands on your plate, so nothing moves fast enough.
❌ Your team is waiting for direction, but you don’t have time to give it.
❌ You feel like you’re grinding just to stay afloat, let alone grow.
❌ You can’t step away without everything falling apart.
According to Harvard Business Review, companies that empower a strong second-in-command make faster decisions, operate more efficiently, and don’t collapse when the founder takes a vacation (imagine that). But in small businesses, only 34% have any kind of real leadership structure—which means most of you are flying without a co-pilot (HBR)
The 'Other Guy' in Business: More Than Just Support
Every visionary leader benefits immensely from having a reliable partner who can translate big-picture ideas into actionable plans. This 'Other Guy'—be it a Chief Operating Officer, General Manager, or Director of Operations—ensures that the organization's daily operations align with its strategic goals. They handle the intricacies of management, allowing the primary leader to focus on innovation and growth. As highlighted by VisionSpark, a #2 leader "plays a crucial role in supporting and implementing the vision and strategies set by the top leader or Owner/Founder."
Benefits of a Trusted Second-in-Command
Integrating a capable 'Other Guy' into your business structure offers numerous advantages:
- Operational Excellence: They oversee daily functions, ensuring efficiency and consistency.
- Strategic Collaboration: Serving as a sounding board, they refine ideas and contribute to informed decision-making.
- Leadership Continuity: They prepare to step in seamlessly during unforeseen circumstances, maintaining business stability.
Embracing the Triangle Offense in Business
Drawing inspiration from the Bulls' strategy, small businesses can implement their version of the Triangle Offense:
- Strategic Direction: Define and document key objectives structure, and process.
- Strategic Performance: Implement a strategic calendar that drives and measures performance
- Strategic Conversations: Foster open communication channels for feedback and innovation.
By adopting this approach and recognizing the value of a strong second-in-command, business owners can position their companies for sustained success, much like the championship-winning Bulls.
Conclusion
The legacy of the Chicago Bulls underscores the importance of collaboration and strategic roles. For small business owners, identifying and empowering your 'Other Guy' isn't just beneficial—it's essential. This partnership ensures that while you steer the company towards new horizons, the core operations remain robust and resilient.
📲 Follow me on Instagram @CertifiedOtherGuy and let’s build your Triangle Offense.: