Why "Hero Ball" Doesn’t Work in Leadership

Welcome to another edition of #ReflectionFriday.

This week’s topic focuses on why playing "hero ball" at work is not a recipe for great leadership but rather a fast track to alienating your colleagues.

Twice this week, I witnessed what happens when someone chooses to prioritize personal glory over teamwork. Both instances highlighted the challenges and failures that arise when an individual believes they’re stronger alone rather than as part of a team.

For those unfamiliar with the term, let’s define hero ball. Hero ball is when one person positions themselves as the sole individual capable of delivering results, ensuring success, or solving problems. They crave the spotlight and strive to appear indispensable, projecting the idea that without them, the organization would falter.

It’s natural to want to be a hero. From childhood, we’re surrounded by stories, movies, and books where the hero takes center stage and claims all the glory. It’s no surprise this vision often shapes our early understanding of success. However, as we mature, we come to realize the true path to success lies not in standing alone but in knowing when to step aside and let teamwork lead the way.

My Personal Journey Away from Hero Ball

I understand the allure of hero ball because I used to think that way myself. Early in my career, during my tenure at Interland (now Web.com), our CHRO and a close friend pulled me aside with a pointed observation.

“Jordan, you’re the Terrell Owens (T.O.) of Interland,” he said.

Initially, I took it as a compliment. At the time, T.O. was one of the NFL’s premier receivers, second only to Jerry Rice. He was everywhere—on TV, in games, in commercials. However, as I reflected on the comparison, I realized there was more to the story.

T.O.’s immense talent was often overshadowed by his reputation as a difficult teammate. His need to be in the spotlight alienated both teammates and opponents, leading to frequent team changes throughout his career.

When I asked my CHRO why he likened me to T.O., he explained that while I wanted others to succeed, my actions didn’t align with those intentions. I was focused on “me” rather than “we.” That conversation marked the beginning of my transition away from hero ball and toward embracing the power of teamwork.

Leadership Isn’t About Playing Hero

There are moments in leadership when stepping into the hero role is necessary. But it should never be your default approach.

As a leader, your primary responsibility is to empower others, groom talent, and ensure your team thrives—even in your absence. True leadership isn’t about making yourself indispensable; it’s about making others more valuable.

This week, both hero ball situations I observed ended poorly. One individual’s reluctance to collaborate led to a lost deal. The other resulted in a project that, even if won, would be difficult to deliver. Instead of basking in the spotlight, these individuals are now remembered as reasons for the failure, the catalysts for new firm policies, and unlikely candidates for the promotions they were seeking.

The Value of Team Players

Here’s the truth: leaders and colleagues already know who the stars are in the organization. It’s easy to spot those who are driven, eager to learn, and willing to collaborate.

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve received notes from leaders in other departments highlighting rising stars on our team. They say things like, “That individual is incredibly talented and a pleasure to work with. They’re indispensable to the firm.”

That kind of recognition doesn’t come from playing hero ball—it comes from being a team player, someone others respect and value.

Closing Thoughts

If you aspire to lead and be promoted, embrace collaboration. Hero ball might earn you the biggest paycheck as an individual contributor and fleeting moments of recognition, but it will come at a cost. From firsthand experience, I can tell you that the call to join the next big opportunity will go to the team player, not the hero.

As Iyanla Vanzant wisely said: “The way to achieve your own success is to be willing to help somebody else get it first.”