DEVELOPMENT decisions on whether to pass , dribble or shoot , catching the opposition off guard and exploiting defensive gaps .
w Likewise with e-mail … A good first touch of a new e-mail with quick decision-making frees up an enormous amount of time by eliminating the repeated re-reading of an e-mail .
Team dynamics and build-up play Soccer is a team sport , and the first touch plays a pivotal role in team dynamics and build-up play . It ’ s not just about individual skill ; it ’ s about how that skill contributes to the collective effort .
w Likewise with e-mail … It ’ s also a team sport , and the first touch plays a pivotal role in team communications and effectiveness . A highly skilled e-mail technician really stands out in a crowd – and a team of them can make a powerful difference in and for an organisation . It is an underappreciated and secret competitive advantage !
Maintaining rhythm In soccer , a team ’ s rhythm and flow in possession are intricately linked to the first touch of its players . A team that can maintain quick and accurate passes through effective first touches can keep the ball circulating smoothly . This not only frustrates the opposition by denying them possession , but also creates opportunities for penetrating the opponent ’ s defence .
w Likewise with e-mail … A team ’ s communication and workload management effectiveness is intricately linked to their first touch of new e-mail . Quick and accurate first touch decision making can keep communications and workload circulating smoothly .
Psychological impact In soccer , beyond its technical and tactical aspects , the first touch also has a psychological impact on players and teams . A successful first touch can provide an immediate confidence boost to the player . It establishes a positive connection with the ball , making the player feel in control and ready to take on challenges . This confidence radiates throughout the team , influencing their overall performance .
w Likewise with e-mail … The ability to manage e-mail well through the first touch has a positive psychological impact for both an individual and a team . It increases their sense of control , self-confidence , self-esteem and morale while reducing frustration , anxiety , stress and burnout .
Momentum shift In the midst of a closely contested soccer match , a skilful first touch can act as a catalyst for a momentum shift . It can energise the team , invigorate the crowd and swing the game ’ s momentum in favour of the team executing the successful touch . Conversely , a poor first touch can deflate the team ’ s morale and hand the advantage to the opposition .
w Likewise with e-mail … A skilful first touch can provide a competitive advantage in the marketplace as the team has more time , focus and confidence to provide a better service to their clients and identify and pursue new opportunities for the organisation .
Evidently , the first touch in soccer goes far beyond a simple act of ball control . It encapsulates a player ’ s technical prowess , decision-making ability , and adaptability under pressure . It influences team dynamics , dictates the pace of play , and can even shape the psychological aspect of the game . As fans cheer for the spectacular goals and impressive saves , it ’ s crucial not to overlook the elegance and significance of the first touch ; the foundation upon which the beautiful game is built .
So much of this also applies to the simple act of handling new incoming e-mail with great skill the first time it is touched . S steuartsnooks . com . au
THE EXPERT
Steuart Snooks is an email and workplace productivity expert who works with busy professionals to help them get control of all their emails . He has developed a series of workshops , presentations , webinars , coaching and resources that outline the best practice skills for mastering your email .
54 Executive PA | Winter Issue 2024