The last Globetrotter article discussed the term ‘intellectual capital’ and its role as the differentiator for business success in the future. Also called the ‘6th C’ or the cranium, intellectual capital is now of equal value with the other five C’s of credit: cash flow, capital, character, capacity and collateral. However, upon closer examination of the elements of intellectual capital, culture plays a significant role.

Whether you are a single-person operation or one with multiple enterprises, employees, managers and vendors, intellectual capital can be enhanced to new levels by the culture that is established and nurtured in your business. In particular, culture is extremely valuable in regards to social behavior. The manner in which people inside and outside your business are integrated into your business model sets a precedent or example for all in the business to observe. A productive, balanced culture is crucial. A sustainable business must exhibit the desire and willingness to work interdependently. There was a time in agriculture when farm and ranch businesses were independent and did not seek opportunities nor enjoy working with those outside of the farm. Today, agriculture is globally interconnected and the culture on your farm must be one that can take advantage of potential opportunities. In the future, successful and sustainable businesses will readily foster a culture based on symbiotic, complementary relationships. If you want to take your business to a higher level, move toward interdependency both inside and outside of the business.

Of course, many of my readers know I enjoy playing and following basketball. This year, my focus was on the Golden State Warriors, coached by Steve Kerr. Coach Kerr fostered a very effective culture. I follow Golden State because Wardell Stephen ‘Dell’ Curry is the father of one of the Warrior players, Steph Curry. Dell Curry played basketball at Virginia Tech while I was on the athletic board and I got the opportunity to know him. He is a solid individual from a solid family from a rural farming area here in Virginia.

As Coach Kerr elevated the team to another level he created a special culture. The Most Valuable Player (MVP) of National Basketball Association’s (NBA) Finals, Andre Iguodala, was relegated to the bench during the regular season, but became a starter when he was needed in the last three playoff games. While somewhat controversial, this strategy demonstrated that at times, you must individually sacrifice for the benefit of the whole entity and eventual, overall success. Coach Kerr knew each player’s needs both on and off the court and made them feel valued individually even if they were not currently playing. Coach Kerr relied on input from lots of assistants including the video person. In fact, it was the video person who suggested a ‘small ball’ or quick, short players to wear down the superstar, Lebron James, in the final three games. If you foster an inclusive, team-like approach, value and success can come from unlikely sources and even unconventional methods.

From my observations, work and marketplace culture is becoming much more critical for sustainable success. Tools like the DISC Personality Profile are extremely helpful in understanding an individual’s personality, trigger situations and stress points. This improved understanding enhances communication and allows for a more productive, successful relationship. A training and development plan on interdependent ventures for employees, managers, the next generation, and even lenders and vendors is critical for maximizing intellectual capital.

Much like Coach Kerr, foster an environment that includes a team of advisors with which you can share ideas, network, brainstorm and agree or disagree. Regardless of size, enterprise or location, this inclusive type of culture can be critical for your business. Coach Kerr won three championships with the Chicago Bulls, two with the San Antonio Spurs and one as coach of the Golden State Warriors. As a player, he was also coached by two of the most successful coaches in NBA history, Phil Jackson and Gregg ‘Pop’ Popovich. Perhaps, he learned a little about culture from his experiences; as can we.