Over the past two decades, I have had the opportunity to lead teams in three distinct arenas: the United States Marine Corps, youth hockey and the business world. While each environment presents unique challenges, the core principles of leadership are surprisingly consistent: Teams win — individuals alone do not.
In business, it is easy to lean on top performers. But over time, that overuse leads to burnout and turnover. In fact, a 2023 Gallup report found that 59 percent of employees are quietly disengaging — often due to burnout, unclear expectations and lack of recognition.
Here are three principles I have carried with me from my time in uniform, on the bench and in business — designed to help you build a sustainable, high-performing team without overworking your best players.
Train everyone in customer service and culture, not just job skills
In the Marine Corps, every Marine is a rifleman. It is more than a motto — it is a mindset. Everyone is trained in core capabilities, regardless of their title or specialty. That shared foundation creates consistency, trust and mission-readiness across the board.
At Sgt. Clean, we apply that same philosophy by training every team member in customer service and company culture — not just their technical responsibilities. Whether someone is loading a car into the car wash, managing a site, or working behind the scenes in maintenance or accounting, they should all understand how we treat customers and how we carry ourselves as a brand.
Why? Because consistency builds trust — and culture is everyone’s job. McKinsey reports that companies investing in team alignment and soft-skill training see up to 25 percent more efficiency and stronger retention. The goal is not just competence, but cohesion.
Honor the playmakers, not just the point scorers
In the military, on the ice and in the office, real wins are rarely solo acts. They are built on a chain of unglamorous, essential moves: the extra shift covered, the rookie mentored, the system improved quietly behind the scenes.
Too often in business, we spotlight only the deal-closers or headline-makers. But sustained success depends on the unsung teammates who move the mission forward every day. Recognition is not a perk — it is a performance strategy. If you want retention, resilience and results, start by honoring the assists.
Build a dynasty, not a one-season wonder
Marines train for any fight, not just the next one — and great teams do the same. Excellence comes from discipline, preparation and long-term thinking.
In business, constant pressure to deliver can burn out top talent. With the average high performer lasting under three years, the solution is not more hustle — it is clarity, coaching and career development. And when someone is clearly misaligned, let them go with empathy. You are not firing them — you are freeing them to thrive elsewhere. Dynasties are built on vision, depth and people who are built to last.
Final whistle: Build for depth, not just speed
The strongest teams are not built around a superstar — they are built on depth, consistency and shared responsibility. Whether in the military, on the ice or in business, great leaders develop everyone, guard against burnout and celebrate the collective. Real leadership is not about one person shining — it is about how bright the whole team shines together. ●
Brian Krusz is Chief Growth & Development Officer at Sgt. Clean Car Wash
