Mark Cuban's edge: sales skill and homework, plus kindness to your team
In a Billionaire Insights talk, Richard shared two points from Mark Cuban. The first is about his edge in business. The second surprised Richard, given how Cuban comes across on TV.
Sales plus homework
Richard says Cuban has always had an edge because he was good at sales and he always did his homework. Richard ties that to reading everything in your niche. Many people skip basics they could learn from a $7 book.
The TV image
On Shark Tank, Richard notes, Cuban can be very direct and seem rude. Richard adds that the show is likely edited to look more dramatic.
Kind to the team
In an interview, Richard says, Cuban said you have to be kind and win over your team. Being a jerk to everyone does not work. Richard calls that an important point for anyone running a growing team. You can expect excellence without being harsh.
In Richard's words
"And Mark Cuban's always had an edge 'cause he said he was good at sales And he always did his homework." (Richard C. Wilson, Billionaire Insights talk)
"But he said in the interview with him that you have to be kind and win over your team members, being a jerk to everybody doesn't work, right?" (Billionaire Insights talk)
How to use this
- Pair a sales skill with real preparation. Either one alone is weaker.
- Read the basic books in your field before you hire experts.
- Hold high standards and stay kind while you do it.
- Do not copy a public persona. Copy how the person runs a team.
Questions and answers
What was Mark Cuban's edge?
Richard says Cuban was good at sales and always did his homework.
Is Cuban harsh with his team?
Richard says Cuban told an interviewer you have to be kind and win over your team, and being a jerk does not work.
Why does he seem blunt on TV?
Richard notes Cuban can be very direct on Shark Tank and that the show is likely edited for drama.
How does this apply to my business?
Richard's takeaway is to expect excellence without being a harsh jerk to the people around you.