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| 1 minute read

The Boba Fett approach to business and mobility

I have to admit: The article I linked to at the end of this post caught my attention (just as hopefully the headline of this post caught yours).

I can’t say I’m a huge Star Wars or “Book of Boba Fett” junkie. But I do like the idea of learning new things from unexpected places. Like the lessons global mobility leaders can get from Ted Lasso, or how they can learn what not to do from the Tiger King. So if an intergalactic bounty hunter has something to teach me, I’m all ears.

The first point the author makes is a wonderful one: “Do what it takes to retain A-players.” As she explains, Boba wants to partner with Master Assassin Fennec Shand, who is reluctant to work together. So Boba makes a compelling offer: "I will cut you in on all the success and pledge my life to protect yours."

Is your organization doing what it can to “retain A-players,” or are they drifting away amid the “Great Resignation?” Your leadership team and mobility program should be in lockstep here with a clear focus on the retention of top talent. You may not have to pledge your life like Boba Fett, but offering the right support, benefits and flexibility to your employees is a great start. Give them a compelling reason to continue the partnership.

The author concludes with this point: “Be hyper-focused on one clear-cut mission.” Boba knows what gets him out of bed and keeps him motivated. Can your mobility team say the same? Do you have a clear mobility philosophy to guide you? Before you can hope to retain those A-players, it may be a good idea to establish (or re-establish) your core values and mission.

Boba Fett's ambitions change after a life-altering experience with the Tusken Raiders. Instead of working for various bosses as a "bounty hunter," he wants to build and lead his own empire. So, he asks Master Assassin Fennec Shand to join him on this mission, saying, "You can only get so far without a tribe." At first, Fennec refuses. She tells him that she'll do the various jobs but wants to be an independent contractor, as she values her freedom. Similarly, in your journey as a business leader, you'll meet amazing A-players who aren't convinced to commit 100% to your mission yet. So what do you do to persuade them?

Tags

global mobility, business strategy, business leaders, mobility program, mobility team, great resignation, talent, talent retention