“This might mean taking responsibility for a team, for a company or for the lives of thousands; or it might be something as simple as sweeping the sheds. Either way, it begins with character, and character begins with humility.”

Kerr emphasizes the importance of character and humility in leadership. He uses parallel structure to contrast grand responsibilities with mundane tasks, emphasizing that true leadership manifests at all levels. The phrase “sweeping the sheds” becomes a metaphor for humility and attention to detail. By asserting that character “begins with humility,” Kerr establishes a foundational principle for his leadership philosophy. The quote’s straightforward tone underscores the universal applicability of this concept, regardless of one’s position or responsibilities.

“In fact, in answer to the question, ‘What is the All Blacks’ competitive advantage?’, key is the ability to manage their culture and central narrative by attaching the players’ personal meaning to a higher purpose. It is the identity of the team that matters—not so much what the All Blacks do, but who they are, what they stand for, and why they exist.”

This quote highlights the book’s emphasis on organizational culture and identity as key drivers of success. Kerr uses rhetorical questions and answers to present his main argument. The author shifts focus from actions (“what the All Blacks do”) to identity (“who they are”), emphasizing the importance of purpose and values. The repetition of “what,” “who,” and “why” creates a rhythmic emphasis on these fundamental aspects of team identity. This quote introduces the idea that aligning personal meaning with a collective purpose is crucial for creating a strong, successful team culture.