The "Vrabel Greeting": Why Personalized Leadership Wins in Small Business

Yes I am from New England. In fact, I live about 15 minutes away from Gillette Stadium, where the AFC Champion New England Patriots call home. And even though I am a NASCAR fan, I am a fan of the team and excited they are going to the Super Bowl!

For us fans, 2025-26 season has been about more than just the scoreboard; it’s been about a return to a specific kind of culture. As a fan, one of the most impactful sights this year hasn't been a play on the field, but a moment in the tunnel: Head Coach Mike Vrabel greeting every single player individually as they exit the game.

Whether it’s a hard-fought win at Gillette or a grueling road loss, Vrabel stands at the locker room entrance. He offers a handshake, a pat on the back, or a word of recognition to every man on the roster.

For small business owners, this isn’t just a great sports moment—it is a masterclass in teamwork, visibility, and leadership.

1. Visibility: Being the First Face They See

In many companies, leadership stays behind closed doors until there is a crisis. Vrabel’s approach is the polar opposite. By being the first person his players see after the final whistle, he signals that he is "in the trenches" with them. When asked about this ritual, Vrabel explained:

"I want to thank them. It’s a good opportunity to see them... I feel like that’s a good chance to thank them and be appreciative of their efforts whether we win or lose."

Small Business Application: Our "post-game" happens at the end of a big project or a stressful Friday. While we all love a big win, the effort put in during the losses matters just as much. Taking five minutes for a 1-on-1 "tunnel greeting" with your staff reinforces that their contribution is valued, regardless of the immediate outcome.

2. Radical Accountability Through Connection

The "Vrabel Greeting" isn't just a polite gesture; it’s a pulse-check. By looking every player in the eye, he gauges their state of mind instantly. This creates a culture where every role—from the superstars to the practice squad—is recognized as essential. As Vrabel noted during this year’s playoff run:

"Everybody’s stepping up. We’re using everybody. Everybody’s making plays. Everybody’s helping us win."

Small Business Application: Small teams rely on every member pulling their weight. When you foster individual connections, accountability stops feeling like "policing" and starts feeling like "partnership." If an employee knows you value them personally, they are more likely to take ownership of their role and admit to mistakes early, before they become fumbles.

Building a Winning Culture

As a fan, it’s been inspiring to see this "players-first" philosophy lead to such a strong resurgence in New England. It reminds us that leadership isn't defined by grand speeches, but by the small, repetitive actions that build trust. Mike Vrabel values the human being behind the jersey, and that is exactly how we should approach our businesses.

In the world of small business, your team is your greatest competitive advantage. By adopting a "Vrabel-style" approach to individual recognition, you aren't just managing employees—you’re building a championship-caliber organization.

#Leadership #SmallBusinessTips #NewEnglandPatriots #TeamCulture #MikeVrabel #BusinessGrowth #RobPetersBiz #WorkplaceCulture #NFLLeadership