Top 10 Business Lessons to Learn From Bobby Petrino

We live in a fascinating world.  When Bobby Petrino can get rehired by the University he dropped like cold pancakes, only to turn around and walk-out on his next job; and then get fired from the job after that; to in turn leave his current position after one year; and finally to return with the accolades of Richard the Lionheart, you figure there's got to be some business lessons.  So, here goes.

10) We all lose clients from time to time.  Be nice to them on the way out.  You'd probably take them back if you had the choice.

"I hate you!  If only you weren't so darn beautiful."

9) When you're in your start-up phase, take big risks, especially if they're not risks. WKU took a chance on damaged goods because they knew it would help them make a big splash.  The PR alone helped them fill the seats on the "other" side of LT Smith Field (the once famous half stadium).  But now they'll also receive 1.2 million from the University of Louisville Athletics Department, and they only paid Bobby $850K for his services to begin with.  Nice! 

Major university owned by this guy.  Film at 11.

8) Haters Gonna Hate anyway.  If the opportunity comes along for you to win, take it, regardless of what your competition says.

WKU Legend Rod Smart.

7) Contracts are a two-way street.  If you're going to dedicate time and effort on a client that has displayed a history of backing-out, have some guarantees built in for your business.  You are providing a valuable service just as they are providing capital.  You are equals in the arrangement.  Petrino isn't breaking his contract with WKU, he is fulfilling it with the buyout clause.  

Can we still be friends?

6) Strive to reach the highest levels of your profession.  Once you've proven you're good at what you do, you can always go back to where you were if things don't work out like you expected.

5) The grass isn't always greener.  Make sure you analyze that great opportunity before you burn your bridges.  You might not like the job once you get it.  Friends, advisers, and coaches can be helpful here, but I've always found a good prayer is the best approach.  If God says "Go," go.  If he says, "Stay," stay.  1 Kings 18:21.  

If the bible isn't your thing, then take a queue from Mr. Miagi.


4) Admit your mistakes.  Apologize.  Ask Forgiveness, and Move on.  Road Rash is hard to hide.  Everybody knows you messed up already.

"My bad."

3) Don't be dishonest.  You're good at what you do.  If you're the best, it shows.  If you're not, find something else you are good at, but the truth always comes out. Don't taint your reputation over something stupid.  Even sub-par employees get 2nd chances as long as they have good character.  

Obama and Petrino.  Change we can believe in....again.

2) Determine your measurement of success before you start. Football is in the business of winning games.  Moral victories are great, but don't be surprised when you can't pay the light bill.

And finally....

1) Exceed expectations.  People will tend to overlook your mistakes if you have a history of delivering big time.

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