One of football’s most recognisable names dispensed leadership lessons, which he claimed are as valuable on the pitch as in the boardroom, at Money 20/20 Europe in Amsterdam.
Liverpool FC and Netherlands national team legend Dirk Kuyt told delegates that “leading by example” was the best way to get the most out any team.
“In top sport, just like in business, all eyes are on you,” said Kuyt, in an interview with Liverpool FC sponsor Standard Chartered’s head of banks, broker deals and fintechs CIB Amar Dattani.
“People talk out loud and use their hands,” said Kuyt, when it was more effective “to speak without speaking”.
He said the best managers and captains with whom he had played had showed great leadership by working the hardest in both training and in matches – and dealing with disappointment with both dignity and respect.
Kuyt noted that Jurgen Klopp, the outgoing Liverpool FC manager, had empowered both his training team and players by believing in their capabilities. He said this had resulted in them believing in themselves, gaining confidence and performing at the top level.