Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast: "Learn to Love Your 90 Percenters" Summary

Host: Scott Becker
Episode Release Date: April 26, 2025

Introduction

In the April 26, 2025 episode of the Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast, host Scott Becker delves into a compelling topic titled "Learn to Love Your 90 Percenters." This episode explores the significance of recognizing and appreciating the majority of individuals—whether in personal relationships or within professional settings—who contribute consistently and effectively, even if they aren't flawless.

Understanding the 90 Percenters

Scott begins by addressing a universal scenario applicable across various facets of life: "In every walk of life, there are people that are doing a very good job. They're doing a very good job." (00:00) He emphasizes that a substantial portion of individuals operate at a high level of competence, often achieving 90-93% effectiveness in their roles or relationships.

The Choice in Focus

Becker poses a critical decision for leaders and individuals alike: "Do you appreciate the heck out of them for what they're doing that's 90, 92% great, or do you focus on that 7 to 10% that you'd like to be done somewhat differently?" (00:00) He advocates for the former, suggesting that acknowledging and valuing the majority's contributions fosters a positive and productive environment.

The Pitfalls of Overemphasizing Shortcomings

Focusing excessively on the minor flaws or the 7-10% that might need improvement can have detrimental effects. Scott warns, "If you make the mistake of focusing on the 7 to 10% that's not going well, then you often discourage and disenfranchise those great people that are largely doing what the organization and institution wants you to do." (00:00) This approach can lead to decreased morale, reduced engagement, and even attrition among high-performing individuals.

Practical Applications in Personal and Professional Settings

In Personal Relationships

Drawing parallels to personal life, Scott advises that if a friend exhibits 90% effectiveness as a friend, minor lapses—like missing a dinner or making other plans—shouldn't overshadow the overall positive relationship. "You better love the friend," he asserts, underscoring the importance of valuing consistent positivity over occasional imperfections.

In the Workplace

In professional environments, the same principle applies. Leaders and managers should "love the 90 percenters, the 93 percenters." (00:00) Recognizing and celebrating the consistent performance of team members fosters loyalty and encourages sustained excellence.

Effective Feedback Mechanisms

While appreciation is crucial, Scott acknowledges that constructive criticism remains a necessary component of growth. However, he cautions against ineffective methods like the "sandwich approach," which involves cushioning negative feedback between positive statements. Instead, he advocates for a more genuine and balanced method of providing feedback.

Avoiding Superficial Techniques:
"It's not the artificiality of the sandwich approach... I'm not a fan of it." (00:00) Scott suggests that feedback should stem from a place of sincere appreciation, ensuring that any criticisms are framed within the context of valuing the individual's overall contributions.

Balancing Praise and Improvement:
He encourages leaders to "appreciate all the great stuff that they do" while also addressing areas for improvement. This balanced approach ensures that individuals feel valued and understood, rather than demoralized by criticism.

Embracing Imperfection

A recurring theme in Scott's discussion is the acceptance of imperfection. He emphasizes that "they're imperfect and don't get hung up on their negatives." (00:00) By embracing the inherent flaws in individuals, leaders can cultivate a more resilient and motivated team.

Condemning Poor Management Practices:
Scott is critical of management behaviors that overemphasize negatives, stating, "I think that's just horrendous management behavior when people do so." (00:00) Such approaches not only undermine individual confidence but also tarnish the overall organizational culture.

Conclusion

Scott Becker's insightful discussion on "Learn to Love Your 90 Percenters" serves as a poignant reminder of the power of appreciation and balanced feedback. By focusing on the strengths and consistent contributions of individuals, whether in personal relationships or professional settings, leaders can foster environments of trust, loyalty, and sustained excellence. This episode underscores the importance of valuing the majority who perform well, recognizing that a collective appreciation leads to thriving organizations and fulfilling personal connections.

Note: This summary is crafted based on the provided transcript and podcast information. For a comprehensive understanding, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode of the Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast.