Building a Bench

Every great sports team has depth. When the starter goes down, the next player is ready. Business teams are no different.

Managers who want to elevate their careers need to think the same way: build a bench before you need it.

Too many new managers make the mistake of assuming their current team will always be available, motivated, and capable of filling future gaps. But change is constant—promotions, turnover, and shifting priorities will test your team’s resilience.

Here’s why building a bench matters:

1. It protects performance.
   When someone leaves or gets promoted, a strong bench ensures continuity. Without it, projects stall, morale drops, and revenue takes a hit.

2. It builds trust with leadership.
   Executives want managers who plan ahead. Showing that you’re grooming talent signals you’re ready for bigger responsibilities yourself.

3. It strengthens retention.
   Employees who see a path forward are less likely to leave. By developing your bench, you’re not just preparing for the future—you’re keeping people engaged today.

4. It multiplies your leadership impact.
   The best leaders aren’t judged just by what they do, but by the leaders they create.

Practical steps to start building your bench:

• Identify high-potential employees early.

• Give them stretch assignments to test readiness.

• Share feedback often, not just during reviews.

• Rotate responsibilities so multiple people can cover key tasks.

A good manager delivers results today.
A great manager ensures their team can deliver tomorrow.