Accounting & Auditing

By Rebecca Kirby, CPA, and Matthew D. Melinson, CPA

A Super Bowl win is the goal of each National Football League team every year. The Philadelphia Eagles recently achieved their goal by winning Super Bowl 52, the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory. This hard-earned accomplishment brought great pride to the Philadelphia area and Eagles fans throughout the world. But it was more than a game. Football fan or not, Eagles fan or not, this past season has served as a model for business practices and life. We present here 10 prominent lessons learned from the 2017 Eagles.

1. Overcome Adversity – Use Doubt as Fuel

Over the course of the 2017 season, the Eagles overcame numerous, usually devastating, obstacles. Six potential all-pro Eagles players were placed on injury reserve, including running back Darren Sproles, linebacker Jordan Hicks, safety Chris Maragos, offensive lineman Jason Peters, kicker Caleb Sturgis, and starting quarterback, and potential league most valuable player, Carson Wentz. However, the team lived its “next man up” philosophy to overcome their adversities. New kicker Jake Elliott replaced Sturgis and kicked a game-winning, season-turning, 61-yard field goal against the Giants, the longest in Philadelphia’s history. Backup quarterback Nick Foles, who had struggled over the past few years to the point that he seriously considered retirement, led the team through the playoffs and was named Super Bowl MVP. Head coach Doug Pedersen was judged by many fans and analysts in the media to be “unqualified” to serve as a head coach – before he coached one game for the Eagles.

Center Jason Kelce’s legendary speech on the day of the parade summarized the doubt placed on the entire team. However, this adversity and doubt became a fuel that drove the team. It was visually represented when offensive lineman Lane Johnson and defensive lineman Chris Long donned dog masks after the team’s NFC Championship win, emphasizing the underdog spirit the team had embraced along the way. Overcoming adversity was integral to one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history: the “Philly Special” where three backup players -- an undrafted running back, Corey Clement, an unheralded tight end, Trey Burton, and an underrated quarterback, Nick Foles -- executed an amazing trick play for a touchdown on a critical fourth down. Consider all of the hard work and perseverance that it took for those three players to earn those positions in the play.

In business, there will be challenges too: employee turnover, lost sales proposals, pressure from market forces, employees’ personal life struggles, and much more. Maybe someone will be selected for a promotion or special assignment you believe you earned. Perhaps colleagues or bosses do not fully understand your value. Don’t complain or blame others each time you feel slighted. Use the doubt as fuel. Look in the mirror and find the steps you can take to improve and prove others wrong.

2. Make Sacrifices – Put Team Ahead of Self

When the Eagles acquired running back Jay Ajayi from the Miami Dolphins during the season, lead running back LeGarrette Blount could have taken this as a jab at his abilities, creating negative energy. Instead, he chose to put the team ahead of himself and figure out how both could contribute. The two shared time and flashed their unique abilities, and both went on to thrive in the Super Bowl. Chris Long, after a divisive protest in his home town of Charlottesville, Va., sacrificed his entire year’s salary to support educational equality in Virginia.

In business, there may be multiple strong performers on a team, possibly giving the perception of internal competition. There are also situations in which a new hire must be integrated into a successful team. Developing a culture of high-character, self-confident employees who are willing to put the team and greater good ahead of themselves is essential and will lead to opportunities for all.

3. Continue to Improve – Pay Attention to Details

Eagles executive vice president Howie Roseman and his personnel department made a gutsy trade two years ago for a quarterback from an unsung school who did not compete at the highest level of college football (Wentz played at North Dakota State). Then they made numerous shrewd personnel moves this past offseason, including signing wide receiver Alshon Jeffery and signing Foles. Later, when the Eagles made it into the playoffs, the coaches focused on important, but sometimes overlooked, details. For example, the team enforced a 30-minute rest during Super Bowl week practice to mimic the 30-minute Super Bowl halftime compared to the normal 12-minute regular season halftime rest. This allowed players to properly address the longer-than-usual wait as they prepared themselves mentally and physically for the second half.

In life and business, developing a strong work ethic is vital. Achievements come from hard work and preparation when no one is watching, and being meticulous in our attention to detail. Instead of being satisfied with the team or work product, always look to improve. Perfecting the fine details helps you achieve and maintain excellence.

4. Seek Mentorship from Leaders

Coaching and leadership played vital roles in the Eagles' success. Pedersen, offensive coordinator Frank Reich, and quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo developed two extremely effective quarterbacks – and they needed both! Ironically, and perhaps not coincidentally as it pertains to their work with Foles, both Reich and Pedersen were primarily NFL backup quarterbacks throughout their playing careers. It seems they were uniquely positioned to mentor Foles and identify what would help him excel. Additionally, Wentz supported Foles after Wentz’s injury; likewise, lineman Peters mentored his replacement, Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who filled in at offensive tackle.

In business, having good coaching and leadership is critical. Creating a culture of mentorship and helping develop successors is valuable to helping a business thrive in the long term. An optimal work environment is one in which bosses show confidence in employees and place employees in positions to succeed.

5. Develop a Support Network

Teams say this all the time (for example, in Seattle the Seahawks play up the “12th man”), but the fans do play a role in team success. The Eagles had a huge home field advantage all season that resulted in a 9-1 record, including the playoffs. Eagles fans also influenced several games the team played on the road in 2017. They traveled to, and in essence “took over,” stadiums in San Diego, Los Angeles, New York, and Minnesota (Super Bowl). In each case, the Eagles won closely contested games. Eli Manning, the New York Giants’ quarterback, cited the noise of Eagles fans as the cause of his offensive teammates not being able to hear him during a game in New York.

In your career, developing a support network from mentors and colleagues, and even family and friends, can help immensely. While you may not have tens of thousands of raving fans, a select few important people invested in your success can be valuable.

6. Establish a Strong Culture and Identity

During the playoff and championship games, the Eagles and their fans rallied around the underdog status. They took pride in it, and used it to define their character. Safety Malcolm Jenkins used the slogan, “We all we got, we all we need,” to express this idea that they were in this together and that they could rely on each other. This togetherness created a support system and identity that made everyone, players and fans, feel included in something great.

Businesses should strive for the same sense of inclusiveness. Whether it is through team meals, meetings, or thoughtful project assignments, create a culture that makes employees feel that they are valuable members of the team. In turn, they will take pride in the team and be willing to work harder to contribute. Forming this sense of identity and developing “a language of your own” gives teams at work similar concepts around which they can galvanize.

7. Embrace Innovation – Take Risks

Believe it or not, data analytics was an important part of the Eagles’ success story. Coach Pederson made innovative use of the team’s analytics department. This group would analyze statistics when the Eagles were in special situations, including fourth-down plays, and provided input on the decisions Pederson would have to make. This helped Pederson make successful calls in situations that seemed risky. It led to a 20 for 29 success rate on 4th down play calls this season, including 2 for 2 in the Super Bowl.

The same concept can be applied to business. In an ever-changing business environment, embrace innovation. Implementing new technologies and encouraging fresh ideas and creativity from employees can help a company thrive. For employees, perhaps a unique opportunity for a special project or a career shift will emerge. Challenge yourself, step up, and take on a new opportunity or increased responsibility.

8. Celebrate Success but Recognize Its Risk

During the season, the Eagles proved the importance of having fun and celebrating success. Whether it was celebrations during the game like dancing to "The Electric Slide" or afterwards when Kelce crowd surfed at the championship parade, the Eagles showed achievement deserves to be celebrated. The same should be considered in business. Employees feel appreciated if their promotions or the successful completion of projects are recognized and celebrated.

However, it is also important to recognize the potential downside of success. The talent of Eagles coaches DeFilippo and Reich attracted job offers from other teams, and both have already departed for new roles elsewhere. Other coaches and players will likely make increased monetary demands as a result of the team’s success. In an environment that has a hard cap on each team’s salary allocations, this will lead to difficult decisions. The team also will face a lower player draft position and a more challenging 2018 game schedule, both of which are geared to improve league parity.

In business, there may be transfers of talent because there may not be enough room for everyone to make it to the top level. Creating a culture in which employees achieve career success and growth will attract and retain talented people to your firm or team. Even when you achieve some level of success, the question then becomes “What’s next?” It is important to stay humble and keep grinding over the long haul.

9. Respect Your Past

The Eagles’ Super Bowl victory was not only important for the current team members, but it was a moment of joy and accomplishment for those who came before them. The Eagles organization has hired former players, such as safety Brian Dawkins and running back Duce Staley, as executives and coaches. They also showed signs of respect to former players during the parade: tight-end Brent Celek wore wide receiver Harold Carmichael’s jersey, defensive lineman Fletcher Cox wore Eagles legendary defensive lineman Reggie White’s jersey, and safety Rodney McLeod wore quarterback Randall Cunningham’s jersey. The celebration was not just about this year’s team, but it was also about those who carried the torch before them.

Respect should be shown in business for our colleagues and mentors who may have retired or may have otherwise helped lay a foundation for your current team. There is much to be learned from others who shared similar experiences. Having business relationships and appreciating and recognizing those who came before us creates pride in the history of a company.

10. Embrace Family and Friends, and Understanding Motivations

The Eagles created a family-like environment this season. Whether it was owner Jeffrey Lurie dancing with players during post-game celebrations, Pedersen’s ice cream parties after meetings, or Wentz’s Bible study sessions with teammates, it was clear that the team enjoyed spending time together. Don’t underestimate the impact of family and friends. This was exhibited by fans, too. For some, the win evoked memories of loved ones who were lifelong Eagles fans but had passed away before the Super Bowl victory. For many, being an Eagles fan represents Sunday dinners and time spent with family during football season. Even casual fans could enjoy the experience and bond with more avid fans. A Super Bowl win was much more than a football victory for many Eagles fans.

In business, understand what motivates people. It is usually not all about “the work,” as important as we think our work can be. It’s often about a desire to help others, including family. Work may be a platform to help lead a better life, which is defined differently by each person. Understanding individual motivations can help leaders earn trust and drive high performance from their teams.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether you or your team wins or loses, competition can help us learn and grow. You will almost always be better for having competed, or even caring about others who compete. The Eagles have come up short in their goal 51 years in a row. But past failures make the achievements that much more rewarding – just ask the loyal fans of other previously long-suffering sports teams such as the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. There has been much inspiration and many lessons learned from watching the Philadelphia Eagles, not only during this special season, but also through prior years. Success is cumulative. It is built upon the achievements of and lessons learned by those who battled before us. And when our businesses, or our teams, succeed, it is a cause for us all to celebrate.

Rebecca Kirby, CPA, is a senior associate, tax, at Grant Thornton LLP in Philadelphia. She can be reached at rebecca.kirby@us.gt.com.

Matthew D. Melinson, CPA, is a partner, state and local tax, with Grant Thornton and a member of the Pennsylvania CPA Journal Editorial Board. He can be reached at matthew.melinson@us.gt.com.

Ethics

By Rebecca Kirby, CPA, and Matthew D. Melinson, CPA

A Super Bowl win is the goal of each National Football League team every year. The Philadelphia Eagles recently achieved their goal by winning Super Bowl 52, the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory. This hard-earned accomplishment brought great pride to the Philadelphia area and Eagles fans throughout the world. But it was more than a game. Football fan or not, Eagles fan or not, this past season has served as a model for business practices and life. We present here 10 prominent lessons learned from the 2017 Eagles.

1. Overcome Adversity – Use Doubt as Fuel

Over the course of the 2017 season, the Eagles overcame numerous, usually devastating, obstacles. Six potential all-pro Eagles players were placed on injury reserve, including running back Darren Sproles, linebacker Jordan Hicks, safety Chris Maragos, offensive lineman Jason Peters, kicker Caleb Sturgis, and starting quarterback, and potential league most valuable player, Carson Wentz. However, the team lived its “next man up” philosophy to overcome their adversities. New kicker Jake Elliott replaced Sturgis and kicked a game-winning, season-turning, 61-yard field goal against the Giants, the longest in Philadelphia’s history. Backup quarterback Nick Foles, who had struggled over the past few years to the point that he seriously considered retirement, led the team through the playoffs and was named Super Bowl MVP. Head coach Doug Pedersen was judged by many fans and analysts in the media to be “unqualified” to serve as a head coach – before he coached one game for the Eagles.

Center Jason Kelce’s legendary speech on the day of the parade summarized the doubt placed on the entire team. However, this adversity and doubt became a fuel that drove the team. It was visually represented when offensive lineman Lane Johnson and defensive lineman Chris Long donned dog masks after the team’s NFC Championship win, emphasizing the underdog spirit the team had embraced along the way. Overcoming adversity was integral to one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history: the “Philly Special” where three backup players -- an undrafted running back, Corey Clement, an unheralded tight end, Trey Burton, and an underrated quarterback, Nick Foles -- executed an amazing trick play for a touchdown on a critical fourth down. Consider all of the hard work and perseverance that it took for those three players to earn those positions in the play.

In business, there will be challenges too: employee turnover, lost sales proposals, pressure from market forces, employees’ personal life struggles, and much more. Maybe someone will be selected for a promotion or special assignment you believe you earned. Perhaps colleagues or bosses do not fully understand your value. Don’t complain or blame others each time you feel slighted. Use the doubt as fuel. Look in the mirror and find the steps you can take to improve and prove others wrong.

2. Make Sacrifices – Put Team Ahead of Self

When the Eagles acquired running back Jay Ajayi from the Miami Dolphins during the season, lead running back LeGarrette Blount could have taken this as a jab at his abilities, creating negative energy. Instead, he chose to put the team ahead of himself and figure out how both could contribute. The two shared time and flashed their unique abilities, and both went on to thrive in the Super Bowl. Chris Long, after a divisive protest in his home town of Charlottesville, Va., sacrificed his entire year’s salary to support educational equality in Virginia.

In business, there may be multiple strong performers on a team, possibly giving the perception of internal competition. There are also situations in which a new hire must be integrated into a successful team. Developing a culture of high-character, self-confident employees who are willing to put the team and greater good ahead of themselves is essential and will lead to opportunities for all.

3. Continue to Improve – Pay Attention to Details

Eagles executive vice president Howie Roseman and his personnel department made a gutsy trade two years ago for a quarterback from an unsung school who did not compete at the highest level of college football (Wentz played at North Dakota State). Then they made numerous shrewd personnel moves this past offseason, including signing wide receiver Alshon Jeffery and signing Foles. Later, when the Eagles made it into the playoffs, the coaches focused on important, but sometimes overlooked, details. For example, the team enforced a 30-minute rest during Super Bowl week practice to mimic the 30-minute Super Bowl halftime compared to the normal 12-minute regular season halftime rest. This allowed players to properly address the longer-than-usual wait as they prepared themselves mentally and physically for the second half.

In life and business, developing a strong work ethic is vital. Achievements come from hard work and preparation when no one is watching, and being meticulous in our attention to detail. Instead of being satisfied with the team or work product, always look to improve. Perfecting the fine details helps you achieve and maintain excellence.

4. Seek Mentorship from Leaders

Coaching and leadership played vital roles in the Eagles' success. Pedersen, offensive coordinator Frank Reich, and quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo developed two extremely effective quarterbacks – and they needed both! Ironically, and perhaps not coincidentally as it pertains to their work with Foles, both Reich and Pedersen were primarily NFL backup quarterbacks throughout their playing careers. It seems they were uniquely positioned to mentor Foles and identify what would help him excel. Additionally, Wentz supported Foles after Wentz’s injury; likewise, lineman Peters mentored his replacement, Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who filled in at offensive tackle.

In business, having good coaching and leadership is critical. Creating a culture of mentorship and helping develop successors is valuable to helping a business thrive in the long term. An optimal work environment is one in which bosses show confidence in employees and place employees in positions to succeed.

5. Develop a Support Network

Teams say this all the time (for example, in Seattle the Seahawks play up the “12th man”), but the fans do play a role in team success. The Eagles had a huge home field advantage all season that resulted in a 9-1 record, including the playoffs. Eagles fans also influenced several games the team played on the road in 2017. They traveled to, and in essence “took over,” stadiums in San Diego, Los Angeles, New York, and Minnesota (Super Bowl). In each case, the Eagles won closely contested games. Eli Manning, the New York Giants’ quarterback, cited the noise of Eagles fans as the cause of his offensive teammates not being able to hear him during a game in New York.

In your career, developing a support network from mentors and colleagues, and even family and friends, can help immensely. While you may not have tens of thousands of raving fans, a select few important people invested in your success can be valuable.

6. Establish a Strong Culture and Identity

During the playoff and championship games, the Eagles and their fans rallied around the underdog status. They took pride in it, and used it to define their character. Safety Malcolm Jenkins used the slogan, “We all we got, we all we need,” to express this idea that they were in this together and that they could rely on each other. This togetherness created a support system and identity that made everyone, players and fans, feel included in something great.

Businesses should strive for the same sense of inclusiveness. Whether it is through team meals, meetings, or thoughtful project assignments, create a culture that makes employees feel that they are valuable members of the team. In turn, they will take pride in the team and be willing to work harder to contribute. Forming this sense of identity and developing “a language of your own” gives teams at work similar concepts around which they can galvanize.

7. Embrace Innovation – Take Risks

Believe it or not, data analytics was an important part of the Eagles’ success story. Coach Pederson made innovative use of the team’s analytics department. This group would analyze statistics when the Eagles were in special situations, including fourth-down plays, and provided input on the decisions Pederson would have to make. This helped Pederson make successful calls in situations that seemed risky. It led to a 20 for 29 success rate on 4th down play calls this season, including 2 for 2 in the Super Bowl.

The same concept can be applied to business. In an ever-changing business environment, embrace innovation. Implementing new technologies and encouraging fresh ideas and creativity from employees can help a company thrive. For employees, perhaps a unique opportunity for a special project or a career shift will emerge. Challenge yourself, step up, and take on a new opportunity or increased responsibility.

8. Celebrate Success but Recognize Its Risk

During the season, the Eagles proved the importance of having fun and celebrating success. Whether it was celebrations during the game like dancing to "The Electric Slide" or afterwards when Kelce crowd surfed at the championship parade, the Eagles showed achievement deserves to be celebrated. The same should be considered in business. Employees feel appreciated if their promotions or the successful completion of projects are recognized and celebrated.

However, it is also important to recognize the potential downside of success. The talent of Eagles coaches DeFilippo and Reich attracted job offers from other teams, and both have already departed for new roles elsewhere. Other coaches and players will likely make increased monetary demands as a result of the team’s success. In an environment that has a hard cap on each team’s salary allocations, this will lead to difficult decisions. The team also will face a lower player draft position and a more challenging 2018 game schedule, both of which are geared to improve league parity.

In business, there may be transfers of talent because there may not be enough room for everyone to make it to the top level. Creating a culture in which employees achieve career success and growth will attract and retain talented people to your firm or team. Even when you achieve some level of success, the question then becomes “What’s next?” It is important to stay humble and keep grinding over the long haul.

9. Respect Your Past

The Eagles’ Super Bowl victory was not only important for the current team members, but it was a moment of joy and accomplishment for those who came before them. The Eagles organization has hired former players, such as safety Brian Dawkins and running back Duce Staley, as executives and coaches. They also showed signs of respect to former players during the parade: tight-end Brent Celek wore wide receiver Harold Carmichael’s jersey, defensive lineman Fletcher Cox wore Eagles legendary defensive lineman Reggie White’s jersey, and safety Rodney McLeod wore quarterback Randall Cunningham’s jersey. The celebration was not just about this year’s team, but it was also about those who carried the torch before them.

Respect should be shown in business for our colleagues and mentors who may have retired or may have otherwise helped lay a foundation for your current team. There is much to be learned from others who shared similar experiences. Having business relationships and appreciating and recognizing those who came before us creates pride in the history of a company.

10. Embrace Family and Friends, and Understanding Motivations

The Eagles created a family-like environment this season. Whether it was owner Jeffrey Lurie dancing with players during post-game celebrations, Pedersen’s ice cream parties after meetings, or Wentz’s Bible study sessions with teammates, it was clear that the team enjoyed spending time together. Don’t underestimate the impact of family and friends. This was exhibited by fans, too. For some, the win evoked memories of loved ones who were lifelong Eagles fans but had passed away before the Super Bowl victory. For many, being an Eagles fan represents Sunday dinners and time spent with family during football season. Even casual fans could enjoy the experience and bond with more avid fans. A Super Bowl win was much more than a football victory for many Eagles fans.

In business, understand what motivates people. It is usually not all about “the work,” as important as we think our work can be. It’s often about a desire to help others, including family. Work may be a platform to help lead a better life, which is defined differently by each person. Understanding individual motivations can help leaders earn trust and drive high performance from their teams.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether you or your team wins or loses, competition can help us learn and grow. You will almost always be better for having competed, or even caring about others who compete. The Eagles have come up short in their goal 51 years in a row. But past failures make the achievements that much more rewarding – just ask the loyal fans of other previously long-suffering sports teams such as the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. There has been much inspiration and many lessons learned from watching the Philadelphia Eagles, not only during this special season, but also through prior years. Success is cumulative. It is built upon the achievements of and lessons learned by those who battled before us. And when our businesses, or our teams, succeed, it is a cause for us all to celebrate.

Rebecca Kirby, CPA, is a senior associate, tax, at Grant Thornton LLP in Philadelphia. She can be reached at rebecca.kirby@us.gt.com.

Matthew D. Melinson, CPA, is a partner, state and local tax, with Grant Thornton and a member of the Pennsylvania CPA Journal Editorial Board. He can be reached at matthew.melinson@us.gt.com.

Leadership

By Rebecca Kirby, CPA, and Matthew D. Melinson, CPA

A Super Bowl win is the goal of each National Football League team every year. The Philadelphia Eagles recently achieved their goal by winning Super Bowl 52, the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory. This hard-earned accomplishment brought great pride to the Philadelphia area and Eagles fans throughout the world. But it was more than a game. Football fan or not, Eagles fan or not, this past season has served as a model for business practices and life. We present here 10 prominent lessons learned from the 2017 Eagles.

1. Overcome Adversity – Use Doubt as Fuel

Over the course of the 2017 season, the Eagles overcame numerous, usually devastating, obstacles. Six potential all-pro Eagles players were placed on injury reserve, including running back Darren Sproles, linebacker Jordan Hicks, safety Chris Maragos, offensive lineman Jason Peters, kicker Caleb Sturgis, and starting quarterback, and potential league most valuable player, Carson Wentz. However, the team lived its “next man up” philosophy to overcome their adversities. New kicker Jake Elliott replaced Sturgis and kicked a game-winning, season-turning, 61-yard field goal against the Giants, the longest in Philadelphia’s history. Backup quarterback Nick Foles, who had struggled over the past few years to the point that he seriously considered retirement, led the team through the playoffs and was named Super Bowl MVP. Head coach Doug Pedersen was judged by many fans and analysts in the media to be “unqualified” to serve as a head coach – before he coached one game for the Eagles.

Center Jason Kelce’s legendary speech on the day of the parade summarized the doubt placed on the entire team. However, this adversity and doubt became a fuel that drove the team. It was visually represented when offensive lineman Lane Johnson and defensive lineman Chris Long donned dog masks after the team’s NFC Championship win, emphasizing the underdog spirit the team had embraced along the way. Overcoming adversity was integral to one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history: the “Philly Special” where three backup players -- an undrafted running back, Corey Clement, an unheralded tight end, Trey Burton, and an underrated quarterback, Nick Foles -- executed an amazing trick play for a touchdown on a critical fourth down. Consider all of the hard work and perseverance that it took for those three players to earn those positions in the play.

In business, there will be challenges too: employee turnover, lost sales proposals, pressure from market forces, employees’ personal life struggles, and much more. Maybe someone will be selected for a promotion or special assignment you believe you earned. Perhaps colleagues or bosses do not fully understand your value. Don’t complain or blame others each time you feel slighted. Use the doubt as fuel. Look in the mirror and find the steps you can take to improve and prove others wrong.

2. Make Sacrifices – Put Team Ahead of Self

When the Eagles acquired running back Jay Ajayi from the Miami Dolphins during the season, lead running back LeGarrette Blount could have taken this as a jab at his abilities, creating negative energy. Instead, he chose to put the team ahead of himself and figure out how both could contribute. The two shared time and flashed their unique abilities, and both went on to thrive in the Super Bowl. Chris Long, after a divisive protest in his home town of Charlottesville, Va., sacrificed his entire year’s salary to support educational equality in Virginia.

In business, there may be multiple strong performers on a team, possibly giving the perception of internal competition. There are also situations in which a new hire must be integrated into a successful team. Developing a culture of high-character, self-confident employees who are willing to put the team and greater good ahead of themselves is essential and will lead to opportunities for all.

3. Continue to Improve – Pay Attention to Details

Eagles executive vice president Howie Roseman and his personnel department made a gutsy trade two years ago for a quarterback from an unsung school who did not compete at the highest level of college football (Wentz played at North Dakota State). Then they made numerous shrewd personnel moves this past offseason, including signing wide receiver Alshon Jeffery and signing Foles. Later, when the Eagles made it into the playoffs, the coaches focused on important, but sometimes overlooked, details. For example, the team enforced a 30-minute rest during Super Bowl week practice to mimic the 30-minute Super Bowl halftime compared to the normal 12-minute regular season halftime rest. This allowed players to properly address the longer-than-usual wait as they prepared themselves mentally and physically for the second half.

In life and business, developing a strong work ethic is vital. Achievements come from hard work and preparation when no one is watching, and being meticulous in our attention to detail. Instead of being satisfied with the team or work product, always look to improve. Perfecting the fine details helps you achieve and maintain excellence.

4. Seek Mentorship from Leaders

Coaching and leadership played vital roles in the Eagles' success. Pedersen, offensive coordinator Frank Reich, and quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo developed two extremely effective quarterbacks – and they needed both! Ironically, and perhaps not coincidentally as it pertains to their work with Foles, both Reich and Pedersen were primarily NFL backup quarterbacks throughout their playing careers. It seems they were uniquely positioned to mentor Foles and identify what would help him excel. Additionally, Wentz supported Foles after Wentz’s injury; likewise, lineman Peters mentored his replacement, Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who filled in at offensive tackle.

In business, having good coaching and leadership is critical. Creating a culture of mentorship and helping develop successors is valuable to helping a business thrive in the long term. An optimal work environment is one in which bosses show confidence in employees and place employees in positions to succeed.

5. Develop a Support Network

Teams say this all the time (for example, in Seattle the Seahawks play up the “12th man”), but the fans do play a role in team success. The Eagles had a huge home field advantage all season that resulted in a 9-1 record, including the playoffs. Eagles fans also influenced several games the team played on the road in 2017. They traveled to, and in essence “took over,” stadiums in San Diego, Los Angeles, New York, and Minnesota (Super Bowl). In each case, the Eagles won closely contested games. Eli Manning, the New York Giants’ quarterback, cited the noise of Eagles fans as the cause of his offensive teammates not being able to hear him during a game in New York.

In your career, developing a support network from mentors and colleagues, and even family and friends, can help immensely. While you may not have tens of thousands of raving fans, a select few important people invested in your success can be valuable.

6. Establish a Strong Culture and Identity

During the playoff and championship games, the Eagles and their fans rallied around the underdog status. They took pride in it, and used it to define their character. Safety Malcolm Jenkins used the slogan, “We all we got, we all we need,” to express this idea that they were in this together and that they could rely on each other. This togetherness created a support system and identity that made everyone, players and fans, feel included in something great.

Businesses should strive for the same sense of inclusiveness. Whether it is through team meals, meetings, or thoughtful project assignments, create a culture that makes employees feel that they are valuable members of the team. In turn, they will take pride in the team and be willing to work harder to contribute. Forming this sense of identity and developing “a language of your own” gives teams at work similar concepts around which they can galvanize.

7. Embrace Innovation – Take Risks

Believe it or not, data analytics was an important part of the Eagles’ success story. Coach Pederson made innovative use of the team’s analytics department. This group would analyze statistics when the Eagles were in special situations, including fourth-down plays, and provided input on the decisions Pederson would have to make. This helped Pederson make successful calls in situations that seemed risky. It led to a 20 for 29 success rate on 4th down play calls this season, including 2 for 2 in the Super Bowl.

The same concept can be applied to business. In an ever-changing business environment, embrace innovation. Implementing new technologies and encouraging fresh ideas and creativity from employees can help a company thrive. For employees, perhaps a unique opportunity for a special project or a career shift will emerge. Challenge yourself, step up, and take on a new opportunity or increased responsibility.

8. Celebrate Success but Recognize Its Risk

During the season, the Eagles proved the importance of having fun and celebrating success. Whether it was celebrations during the game like dancing to "The Electric Slide" or afterwards when Kelce crowd surfed at the championship parade, the Eagles showed achievement deserves to be celebrated. The same should be considered in business. Employees feel appreciated if their promotions or the successful completion of projects are recognized and celebrated.

However, it is also important to recognize the potential downside of success. The talent of Eagles coaches DeFilippo and Reich attracted job offers from other teams, and both have already departed for new roles elsewhere. Other coaches and players will likely make increased monetary demands as a result of the team’s success. In an environment that has a hard cap on each team’s salary allocations, this will lead to difficult decisions. The team also will face a lower player draft position and a more challenging 2018 game schedule, both of which are geared to improve league parity.

In business, there may be transfers of talent because there may not be enough room for everyone to make it to the top level. Creating a culture in which employees achieve career success and growth will attract and retain talented people to your firm or team. Even when you achieve some level of success, the question then becomes “What’s next?” It is important to stay humble and keep grinding over the long haul.

9. Respect Your Past

The Eagles’ Super Bowl victory was not only important for the current team members, but it was a moment of joy and accomplishment for those who came before them. The Eagles organization has hired former players, such as safety Brian Dawkins and running back Duce Staley, as executives and coaches. They also showed signs of respect to former players during the parade: tight-end Brent Celek wore wide receiver Harold Carmichael’s jersey, defensive lineman Fletcher Cox wore Eagles legendary defensive lineman Reggie White’s jersey, and safety Rodney McLeod wore quarterback Randall Cunningham’s jersey. The celebration was not just about this year’s team, but it was also about those who carried the torch before them.

Respect should be shown in business for our colleagues and mentors who may have retired or may have otherwise helped lay a foundation for your current team. There is much to be learned from others who shared similar experiences. Having business relationships and appreciating and recognizing those who came before us creates pride in the history of a company.

10. Embrace Family and Friends, and Understanding Motivations

The Eagles created a family-like environment this season. Whether it was owner Jeffrey Lurie dancing with players during post-game celebrations, Pedersen’s ice cream parties after meetings, or Wentz’s Bible study sessions with teammates, it was clear that the team enjoyed spending time together. Don’t underestimate the impact of family and friends. This was exhibited by fans, too. For some, the win evoked memories of loved ones who were lifelong Eagles fans but had passed away before the Super Bowl victory. For many, being an Eagles fan represents Sunday dinners and time spent with family during football season. Even casual fans could enjoy the experience and bond with more avid fans. A Super Bowl win was much more than a football victory for many Eagles fans.

In business, understand what motivates people. It is usually not all about “the work,” as important as we think our work can be. It’s often about a desire to help others, including family. Work may be a platform to help lead a better life, which is defined differently by each person. Understanding individual motivations can help leaders earn trust and drive high performance from their teams.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether you or your team wins or loses, competition can help us learn and grow. You will almost always be better for having competed, or even caring about others who compete. The Eagles have come up short in their goal 51 years in a row. But past failures make the achievements that much more rewarding – just ask the loyal fans of other previously long-suffering sports teams such as the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. There has been much inspiration and many lessons learned from watching the Philadelphia Eagles, not only during this special season, but also through prior years. Success is cumulative. It is built upon the achievements of and lessons learned by those who battled before us. And when our businesses, or our teams, succeed, it is a cause for us all to celebrate.

Rebecca Kirby, CPA, is a senior associate, tax, at Grant Thornton LLP in Philadelphia. She can be reached at rebecca.kirby@us.gt.com.

Matthew D. Melinson, CPA, is a partner, state and local tax, with Grant Thornton and a member of the Pennsylvania CPA Journal Editorial Board. He can be reached at matthew.melinson@us.gt.com.

Practice Management

By Rebecca Kirby, CPA, and Matthew D. Melinson, CPA

A Super Bowl win is the goal of each National Football League team every year. The Philadelphia Eagles recently achieved their goal by winning Super Bowl 52, the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory. This hard-earned accomplishment brought great pride to the Philadelphia area and Eagles fans throughout the world. But it was more than a game. Football fan or not, Eagles fan or not, this past season has served as a model for business practices and life. We present here 10 prominent lessons learned from the 2017 Eagles.

1. Overcome Adversity – Use Doubt as Fuel

Over the course of the 2017 season, the Eagles overcame numerous, usually devastating, obstacles. Six potential all-pro Eagles players were placed on injury reserve, including running back Darren Sproles, linebacker Jordan Hicks, safety Chris Maragos, offensive lineman Jason Peters, kicker Caleb Sturgis, and starting quarterback, and potential league most valuable player, Carson Wentz. However, the team lived its “next man up” philosophy to overcome their adversities. New kicker Jake Elliott replaced Sturgis and kicked a game-winning, season-turning, 61-yard field goal against the Giants, the longest in Philadelphia’s history. Backup quarterback Nick Foles, who had struggled over the past few years to the point that he seriously considered retirement, led the team through the playoffs and was named Super Bowl MVP. Head coach Doug Pedersen was judged by many fans and analysts in the media to be “unqualified” to serve as a head coach – before he coached one game for the Eagles.

Center Jason Kelce’s legendary speech on the day of the parade summarized the doubt placed on the entire team. However, this adversity and doubt became a fuel that drove the team. It was visually represented when offensive lineman Lane Johnson and defensive lineman Chris Long donned dog masks after the team’s NFC Championship win, emphasizing the underdog spirit the team had embraced along the way. Overcoming adversity was integral to one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history: the “Philly Special” where three backup players -- an undrafted running back, Corey Clement, an unheralded tight end, Trey Burton, and an underrated quarterback, Nick Foles -- executed an amazing trick play for a touchdown on a critical fourth down. Consider all of the hard work and perseverance that it took for those three players to earn those positions in the play.

In business, there will be challenges too: employee turnover, lost sales proposals, pressure from market forces, employees’ personal life struggles, and much more. Maybe someone will be selected for a promotion or special assignment you believe you earned. Perhaps colleagues or bosses do not fully understand your value. Don’t complain or blame others each time you feel slighted. Use the doubt as fuel. Look in the mirror and find the steps you can take to improve and prove others wrong.

2. Make Sacrifices – Put Team Ahead of Self

When the Eagles acquired running back Jay Ajayi from the Miami Dolphins during the season, lead running back LeGarrette Blount could have taken this as a jab at his abilities, creating negative energy. Instead, he chose to put the team ahead of himself and figure out how both could contribute. The two shared time and flashed their unique abilities, and both went on to thrive in the Super Bowl. Chris Long, after a divisive protest in his home town of Charlottesville, Va., sacrificed his entire year’s salary to support educational equality in Virginia.

In business, there may be multiple strong performers on a team, possibly giving the perception of internal competition. There are also situations in which a new hire must be integrated into a successful team. Developing a culture of high-character, self-confident employees who are willing to put the team and greater good ahead of themselves is essential and will lead to opportunities for all.

3. Continue to Improve – Pay Attention to Details

Eagles executive vice president Howie Roseman and his personnel department made a gutsy trade two years ago for a quarterback from an unsung school who did not compete at the highest level of college football (Wentz played at North Dakota State). Then they made numerous shrewd personnel moves this past offseason, including signing wide receiver Alshon Jeffery and signing Foles. Later, when the Eagles made it into the playoffs, the coaches focused on important, but sometimes overlooked, details. For example, the team enforced a 30-minute rest during Super Bowl week practice to mimic the 30-minute Super Bowl halftime compared to the normal 12-minute regular season halftime rest. This allowed players to properly address the longer-than-usual wait as they prepared themselves mentally and physically for the second half.

In life and business, developing a strong work ethic is vital. Achievements come from hard work and preparation when no one is watching, and being meticulous in our attention to detail. Instead of being satisfied with the team or work product, always look to improve. Perfecting the fine details helps you achieve and maintain excellence.

4. Seek Mentorship from Leaders

Coaching and leadership played vital roles in the Eagles' success. Pedersen, offensive coordinator Frank Reich, and quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo developed two extremely effective quarterbacks – and they needed both! Ironically, and perhaps not coincidentally as it pertains to their work with Foles, both Reich and Pedersen were primarily NFL backup quarterbacks throughout their playing careers. It seems they were uniquely positioned to mentor Foles and identify what would help him excel. Additionally, Wentz supported Foles after Wentz’s injury; likewise, lineman Peters mentored his replacement, Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who filled in at offensive tackle.

In business, having good coaching and leadership is critical. Creating a culture of mentorship and helping develop successors is valuable to helping a business thrive in the long term. An optimal work environment is one in which bosses show confidence in employees and place employees in positions to succeed.

5. Develop a Support Network

Teams say this all the time (for example, in Seattle the Seahawks play up the “12th man”), but the fans do play a role in team success. The Eagles had a huge home field advantage all season that resulted in a 9-1 record, including the playoffs. Eagles fans also influenced several games the team played on the road in 2017. They traveled to, and in essence “took over,” stadiums in San Diego, Los Angeles, New York, and Minnesota (Super Bowl). In each case, the Eagles won closely contested games. Eli Manning, the New York Giants’ quarterback, cited the noise of Eagles fans as the cause of his offensive teammates not being able to hear him during a game in New York.

In your career, developing a support network from mentors and colleagues, and even family and friends, can help immensely. While you may not have tens of thousands of raving fans, a select few important people invested in your success can be valuable.

6. Establish a Strong Culture and Identity

During the playoff and championship games, the Eagles and their fans rallied around the underdog status. They took pride in it, and used it to define their character. Safety Malcolm Jenkins used the slogan, “We all we got, we all we need,” to express this idea that they were in this together and that they could rely on each other. This togetherness created a support system and identity that made everyone, players and fans, feel included in something great.

Businesses should strive for the same sense of inclusiveness. Whether it is through team meals, meetings, or thoughtful project assignments, create a culture that makes employees feel that they are valuable members of the team. In turn, they will take pride in the team and be willing to work harder to contribute. Forming this sense of identity and developing “a language of your own” gives teams at work similar concepts around which they can galvanize.

7. Embrace Innovation – Take Risks

Believe it or not, data analytics was an important part of the Eagles’ success story. Coach Pederson made innovative use of the team’s analytics department. This group would analyze statistics when the Eagles were in special situations, including fourth-down plays, and provided input on the decisions Pederson would have to make. This helped Pederson make successful calls in situations that seemed risky. It led to a 20 for 29 success rate on 4th down play calls this season, including 2 for 2 in the Super Bowl.

The same concept can be applied to business. In an ever-changing business environment, embrace innovation. Implementing new technologies and encouraging fresh ideas and creativity from employees can help a company thrive. For employees, perhaps a unique opportunity for a special project or a career shift will emerge. Challenge yourself, step up, and take on a new opportunity or increased responsibility.

8. Celebrate Success but Recognize Its Risk

During the season, the Eagles proved the importance of having fun and celebrating success. Whether it was celebrations during the game like dancing to "The Electric Slide" or afterwards when Kelce crowd surfed at the championship parade, the Eagles showed achievement deserves to be celebrated. The same should be considered in business. Employees feel appreciated if their promotions or the successful completion of projects are recognized and celebrated.

However, it is also important to recognize the potential downside of success. The talent of Eagles coaches DeFilippo and Reich attracted job offers from other teams, and both have already departed for new roles elsewhere. Other coaches and players will likely make increased monetary demands as a result of the team’s success. In an environment that has a hard cap on each team’s salary allocations, this will lead to difficult decisions. The team also will face a lower player draft position and a more challenging 2018 game schedule, both of which are geared to improve league parity.

In business, there may be transfers of talent because there may not be enough room for everyone to make it to the top level. Creating a culture in which employees achieve career success and growth will attract and retain talented people to your firm or team. Even when you achieve some level of success, the question then becomes “What’s next?” It is important to stay humble and keep grinding over the long haul.

9. Respect Your Past

The Eagles’ Super Bowl victory was not only important for the current team members, but it was a moment of joy and accomplishment for those who came before them. The Eagles organization has hired former players, such as safety Brian Dawkins and running back Duce Staley, as executives and coaches. They also showed signs of respect to former players during the parade: tight-end Brent Celek wore wide receiver Harold Carmichael’s jersey, defensive lineman Fletcher Cox wore Eagles legendary defensive lineman Reggie White’s jersey, and safety Rodney McLeod wore quarterback Randall Cunningham’s jersey. The celebration was not just about this year’s team, but it was also about those who carried the torch before them.

Respect should be shown in business for our colleagues and mentors who may have retired or may have otherwise helped lay a foundation for your current team. There is much to be learned from others who shared similar experiences. Having business relationships and appreciating and recognizing those who came before us creates pride in the history of a company.

10. Embrace Family and Friends, and Understanding Motivations

The Eagles created a family-like environment this season. Whether it was owner Jeffrey Lurie dancing with players during post-game celebrations, Pedersen’s ice cream parties after meetings, or Wentz’s Bible study sessions with teammates, it was clear that the team enjoyed spending time together. Don’t underestimate the impact of family and friends. This was exhibited by fans, too. For some, the win evoked memories of loved ones who were lifelong Eagles fans but had passed away before the Super Bowl victory. For many, being an Eagles fan represents Sunday dinners and time spent with family during football season. Even casual fans could enjoy the experience and bond with more avid fans. A Super Bowl win was much more than a football victory for many Eagles fans.

In business, understand what motivates people. It is usually not all about “the work,” as important as we think our work can be. It’s often about a desire to help others, including family. Work may be a platform to help lead a better life, which is defined differently by each person. Understanding individual motivations can help leaders earn trust and drive high performance from their teams.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether you or your team wins or loses, competition can help us learn and grow. You will almost always be better for having competed, or even caring about others who compete. The Eagles have come up short in their goal 51 years in a row. But past failures make the achievements that much more rewarding – just ask the loyal fans of other previously long-suffering sports teams such as the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. There has been much inspiration and many lessons learned from watching the Philadelphia Eagles, not only during this special season, but also through prior years. Success is cumulative. It is built upon the achievements of and lessons learned by those who battled before us. And when our businesses, or our teams, succeed, it is a cause for us all to celebrate.

Rebecca Kirby, CPA, is a senior associate, tax, at Grant Thornton LLP in Philadelphia. She can be reached at rebecca.kirby@us.gt.com.

Matthew D. Melinson, CPA, is a partner, state and local tax, with Grant Thornton and a member of the Pennsylvania CPA Journal Editorial Board. He can be reached at matthew.melinson@us.gt.com.

Technology

By Rebecca Kirby, CPA, and Matthew D. Melinson, CPA

A Super Bowl win is the goal of each National Football League team every year. The Philadelphia Eagles recently achieved their goal by winning Super Bowl 52, the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory. This hard-earned accomplishment brought great pride to the Philadelphia area and Eagles fans throughout the world. But it was more than a game. Football fan or not, Eagles fan or not, this past season has served as a model for business practices and life. We present here 10 prominent lessons learned from the 2017 Eagles.

1. Overcome Adversity – Use Doubt as Fuel

Over the course of the 2017 season, the Eagles overcame numerous, usually devastating, obstacles. Six potential all-pro Eagles players were placed on injury reserve, including running back Darren Sproles, linebacker Jordan Hicks, safety Chris Maragos, offensive lineman Jason Peters, kicker Caleb Sturgis, and starting quarterback, and potential league most valuable player, Carson Wentz. However, the team lived its “next man up” philosophy to overcome their adversities. New kicker Jake Elliott replaced Sturgis and kicked a game-winning, season-turning, 61-yard field goal against the Giants, the longest in Philadelphia’s history. Backup quarterback Nick Foles, who had struggled over the past few years to the point that he seriously considered retirement, led the team through the playoffs and was named Super Bowl MVP. Head coach Doug Pedersen was judged by many fans and analysts in the media to be “unqualified” to serve as a head coach – before he coached one game for the Eagles.

Center Jason Kelce’s legendary speech on the day of the parade summarized the doubt placed on the entire team. However, this adversity and doubt became a fuel that drove the team. It was visually represented when offensive lineman Lane Johnson and defensive lineman Chris Long donned dog masks after the team’s NFC Championship win, emphasizing the underdog spirit the team had embraced along the way. Overcoming adversity was integral to one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history: the “Philly Special” where three backup players -- an undrafted running back, Corey Clement, an unheralded tight end, Trey Burton, and an underrated quarterback, Nick Foles -- executed an amazing trick play for a touchdown on a critical fourth down. Consider all of the hard work and perseverance that it took for those three players to earn those positions in the play.

In business, there will be challenges too: employee turnover, lost sales proposals, pressure from market forces, employees’ personal life struggles, and much more. Maybe someone will be selected for a promotion or special assignment you believe you earned. Perhaps colleagues or bosses do not fully understand your value. Don’t complain or blame others each time you feel slighted. Use the doubt as fuel. Look in the mirror and find the steps you can take to improve and prove others wrong.

2. Make Sacrifices – Put Team Ahead of Self

When the Eagles acquired running back Jay Ajayi from the Miami Dolphins during the season, lead running back LeGarrette Blount could have taken this as a jab at his abilities, creating negative energy. Instead, he chose to put the team ahead of himself and figure out how both could contribute. The two shared time and flashed their unique abilities, and both went on to thrive in the Super Bowl. Chris Long, after a divisive protest in his home town of Charlottesville, Va., sacrificed his entire year’s salary to support educational equality in Virginia.

In business, there may be multiple strong performers on a team, possibly giving the perception of internal competition. There are also situations in which a new hire must be integrated into a successful team. Developing a culture of high-character, self-confident employees who are willing to put the team and greater good ahead of themselves is essential and will lead to opportunities for all.

3. Continue to Improve – Pay Attention to Details

Eagles executive vice president Howie Roseman and his personnel department made a gutsy trade two years ago for a quarterback from an unsung school who did not compete at the highest level of college football (Wentz played at North Dakota State). Then they made numerous shrewd personnel moves this past offseason, including signing wide receiver Alshon Jeffery and signing Foles. Later, when the Eagles made it into the playoffs, the coaches focused on important, but sometimes overlooked, details. For example, the team enforced a 30-minute rest during Super Bowl week practice to mimic the 30-minute Super Bowl halftime compared to the normal 12-minute regular season halftime rest. This allowed players to properly address the longer-than-usual wait as they prepared themselves mentally and physically for the second half.

In life and business, developing a strong work ethic is vital. Achievements come from hard work and preparation when no one is watching, and being meticulous in our attention to detail. Instead of being satisfied with the team or work product, always look to improve. Perfecting the fine details helps you achieve and maintain excellence.

4. Seek Mentorship from Leaders

Coaching and leadership played vital roles in the Eagles' success. Pedersen, offensive coordinator Frank Reich, and quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo developed two extremely effective quarterbacks – and they needed both! Ironically, and perhaps not coincidentally as it pertains to their work with Foles, both Reich and Pedersen were primarily NFL backup quarterbacks throughout their playing careers. It seems they were uniquely positioned to mentor Foles and identify what would help him excel. Additionally, Wentz supported Foles after Wentz’s injury; likewise, lineman Peters mentored his replacement, Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who filled in at offensive tackle.

In business, having good coaching and leadership is critical. Creating a culture of mentorship and helping develop successors is valuable to helping a business thrive in the long term. An optimal work environment is one in which bosses show confidence in employees and place employees in positions to succeed.

5. Develop a Support Network

Teams say this all the time (for example, in Seattle the Seahawks play up the “12th man”), but the fans do play a role in team success. The Eagles had a huge home field advantage all season that resulted in a 9-1 record, including the playoffs. Eagles fans also influenced several games the team played on the road in 2017. They traveled to, and in essence “took over,” stadiums in San Diego, Los Angeles, New York, and Minnesota (Super Bowl). In each case, the Eagles won closely contested games. Eli Manning, the New York Giants’ quarterback, cited the noise of Eagles fans as the cause of his offensive teammates not being able to hear him during a game in New York.

In your career, developing a support network from mentors and colleagues, and even family and friends, can help immensely. While you may not have tens of thousands of raving fans, a select few important people invested in your success can be valuable.

6. Establish a Strong Culture and Identity

During the playoff and championship games, the Eagles and their fans rallied around the underdog status. They took pride in it, and used it to define their character. Safety Malcolm Jenkins used the slogan, “We all we got, we all we need,” to express this idea that they were in this together and that they could rely on each other. This togetherness created a support system and identity that made everyone, players and fans, feel included in something great.

Businesses should strive for the same sense of inclusiveness. Whether it is through team meals, meetings, or thoughtful project assignments, create a culture that makes employees feel that they are valuable members of the team. In turn, they will take pride in the team and be willing to work harder to contribute. Forming this sense of identity and developing “a language of your own” gives teams at work similar concepts around which they can galvanize.

7. Embrace Innovation – Take Risks

Believe it or not, data analytics was an important part of the Eagles’ success story. Coach Pederson made innovative use of the team’s analytics department. This group would analyze statistics when the Eagles were in special situations, including fourth-down plays, and provided input on the decisions Pederson would have to make. This helped Pederson make successful calls in situations that seemed risky. It led to a 20 for 29 success rate on 4th down play calls this season, including 2 for 2 in the Super Bowl.

The same concept can be applied to business. In an ever-changing business environment, embrace innovation. Implementing new technologies and encouraging fresh ideas and creativity from employees can help a company thrive. For employees, perhaps a unique opportunity for a special project or a career shift will emerge. Challenge yourself, step up, and take on a new opportunity or increased responsibility.

8. Celebrate Success but Recognize Its Risk

During the season, the Eagles proved the importance of having fun and celebrating success. Whether it was celebrations during the game like dancing to "The Electric Slide" or afterwards when Kelce crowd surfed at the championship parade, the Eagles showed achievement deserves to be celebrated. The same should be considered in business. Employees feel appreciated if their promotions or the successful completion of projects are recognized and celebrated.

However, it is also important to recognize the potential downside of success. The talent of Eagles coaches DeFilippo and Reich attracted job offers from other teams, and both have already departed for new roles elsewhere. Other coaches and players will likely make increased monetary demands as a result of the team’s success. In an environment that has a hard cap on each team’s salary allocations, this will lead to difficult decisions. The team also will face a lower player draft position and a more challenging 2018 game schedule, both of which are geared to improve league parity.

In business, there may be transfers of talent because there may not be enough room for everyone to make it to the top level. Creating a culture in which employees achieve career success and growth will attract and retain talented people to your firm or team. Even when you achieve some level of success, the question then becomes “What’s next?” It is important to stay humble and keep grinding over the long haul.

9. Respect Your Past

The Eagles’ Super Bowl victory was not only important for the current team members, but it was a moment of joy and accomplishment for those who came before them. The Eagles organization has hired former players, such as safety Brian Dawkins and running back Duce Staley, as executives and coaches. They also showed signs of respect to former players during the parade: tight-end Brent Celek wore wide receiver Harold Carmichael’s jersey, defensive lineman Fletcher Cox wore Eagles legendary defensive lineman Reggie White’s jersey, and safety Rodney McLeod wore quarterback Randall Cunningham’s jersey. The celebration was not just about this year’s team, but it was also about those who carried the torch before them.

Respect should be shown in business for our colleagues and mentors who may have retired or may have otherwise helped lay a foundation for your current team. There is much to be learned from others who shared similar experiences. Having business relationships and appreciating and recognizing those who came before us creates pride in the history of a company.

10. Embrace Family and Friends, and Understanding Motivations

The Eagles created a family-like environment this season. Whether it was owner Jeffrey Lurie dancing with players during post-game celebrations, Pedersen’s ice cream parties after meetings, or Wentz’s Bible study sessions with teammates, it was clear that the team enjoyed spending time together. Don’t underestimate the impact of family and friends. This was exhibited by fans, too. For some, the win evoked memories of loved ones who were lifelong Eagles fans but had passed away before the Super Bowl victory. For many, being an Eagles fan represents Sunday dinners and time spent with family during football season. Even casual fans could enjoy the experience and bond with more avid fans. A Super Bowl win was much more than a football victory for many Eagles fans.

In business, understand what motivates people. It is usually not all about “the work,” as important as we think our work can be. It’s often about a desire to help others, including family. Work may be a platform to help lead a better life, which is defined differently by each person. Understanding individual motivations can help leaders earn trust and drive high performance from their teams.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether you or your team wins or loses, competition can help us learn and grow. You will almost always be better for having competed, or even caring about others who compete. The Eagles have come up short in their goal 51 years in a row. But past failures make the achievements that much more rewarding – just ask the loyal fans of other previously long-suffering sports teams such as the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. There has been much inspiration and many lessons learned from watching the Philadelphia Eagles, not only during this special season, but also through prior years. Success is cumulative. It is built upon the achievements of and lessons learned by those who battled before us. And when our businesses, or our teams, succeed, it is a cause for us all to celebrate.

Rebecca Kirby, CPA, is a senior associate, tax, at Grant Thornton LLP in Philadelphia. She can be reached at rebecca.kirby@us.gt.com.

Matthew D. Melinson, CPA, is a partner, state and local tax, with Grant Thornton and a member of the Pennsylvania CPA Journal Editorial Board. He can be reached at matthew.melinson@us.gt.com.

Tax

By Rebecca Kirby, CPA, and Matthew D. Melinson, CPA

A Super Bowl win is the goal of each National Football League team every year. The Philadelphia Eagles recently achieved their goal by winning Super Bowl 52, the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory. This hard-earned accomplishment brought great pride to the Philadelphia area and Eagles fans throughout the world. But it was more than a game. Football fan or not, Eagles fan or not, this past season has served as a model for business practices and life. We present here 10 prominent lessons learned from the 2017 Eagles.

1. Overcome Adversity – Use Doubt as Fuel

Over the course of the 2017 season, the Eagles overcame numerous, usually devastating, obstacles. Six potential all-pro Eagles players were placed on injury reserve, including running back Darren Sproles, linebacker Jordan Hicks, safety Chris Maragos, offensive lineman Jason Peters, kicker Caleb Sturgis, and starting quarterback, and potential league most valuable player, Carson Wentz. However, the team lived its “next man up” philosophy to overcome their adversities. New kicker Jake Elliott replaced Sturgis and kicked a game-winning, season-turning, 61-yard field goal against the Giants, the longest in Philadelphia’s history. Backup quarterback Nick Foles, who had struggled over the past few years to the point that he seriously considered retirement, led the team through the playoffs and was named Super Bowl MVP. Head coach Doug Pedersen was judged by many fans and analysts in the media to be “unqualified” to serve as a head coach – before he coached one game for the Eagles.

Center Jason Kelce’s legendary speech on the day of the parade summarized the doubt placed on the entire team. However, this adversity and doubt became a fuel that drove the team. It was visually represented when offensive lineman Lane Johnson and defensive lineman Chris Long donned dog masks after the team’s NFC Championship win, emphasizing the underdog spirit the team had embraced along the way. Overcoming adversity was integral to one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history: the “Philly Special” where three backup players -- an undrafted running back, Corey Clement, an unheralded tight end, Trey Burton, and an underrated quarterback, Nick Foles -- executed an amazing trick play for a touchdown on a critical fourth down. Consider all of the hard work and perseverance that it took for those three players to earn those positions in the play.

In business, there will be challenges too: employee turnover, lost sales proposals, pressure from market forces, employees’ personal life struggles, and much more. Maybe someone will be selected for a promotion or special assignment you believe you earned. Perhaps colleagues or bosses do not fully understand your value. Don’t complain or blame others each time you feel slighted. Use the doubt as fuel. Look in the mirror and find the steps you can take to improve and prove others wrong.

2. Make Sacrifices – Put Team Ahead of Self

When the Eagles acquired running back Jay Ajayi from the Miami Dolphins during the season, lead running back LeGarrette Blount could have taken this as a jab at his abilities, creating negative energy. Instead, he chose to put the team ahead of himself and figure out how both could contribute. The two shared time and flashed their unique abilities, and both went on to thrive in the Super Bowl. Chris Long, after a divisive protest in his home town of Charlottesville, Va., sacrificed his entire year’s salary to support educational equality in Virginia.

In business, there may be multiple strong performers on a team, possibly giving the perception of internal competition. There are also situations in which a new hire must be integrated into a successful team. Developing a culture of high-character, self-confident employees who are willing to put the team and greater good ahead of themselves is essential and will lead to opportunities for all.

3. Continue to Improve – Pay Attention to Details

Eagles executive vice president Howie Roseman and his personnel department made a gutsy trade two years ago for a quarterback from an unsung school who did not compete at the highest level of college football (Wentz played at North Dakota State). Then they made numerous shrewd personnel moves this past offseason, including signing wide receiver Alshon Jeffery and signing Foles. Later, when the Eagles made it into the playoffs, the coaches focused on important, but sometimes overlooked, details. For example, the team enforced a 30-minute rest during Super Bowl week practice to mimic the 30-minute Super Bowl halftime compared to the normal 12-minute regular season halftime rest. This allowed players to properly address the longer-than-usual wait as they prepared themselves mentally and physically for the second half.

In life and business, developing a strong work ethic is vital. Achievements come from hard work and preparation when no one is watching, and being meticulous in our attention to detail. Instead of being satisfied with the team or work product, always look to improve. Perfecting the fine details helps you achieve and maintain excellence.

4. Seek Mentorship from Leaders

Coaching and leadership played vital roles in the Eagles' success. Pedersen, offensive coordinator Frank Reich, and quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo developed two extremely effective quarterbacks – and they needed both! Ironically, and perhaps not coincidentally as it pertains to their work with Foles, both Reich and Pedersen were primarily NFL backup quarterbacks throughout their playing careers. It seems they were uniquely positioned to mentor Foles and identify what would help him excel. Additionally, Wentz supported Foles after Wentz’s injury; likewise, lineman Peters mentored his replacement, Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who filled in at offensive tackle.

In business, having good coaching and leadership is critical. Creating a culture of mentorship and helping develop successors is valuable to helping a business thrive in the long term. An optimal work environment is one in which bosses show confidence in employees and place employees in positions to succeed.

5. Develop a Support Network

Teams say this all the time (for example, in Seattle the Seahawks play up the “12th man”), but the fans do play a role in team success. The Eagles had a huge home field advantage all season that resulted in a 9-1 record, including the playoffs. Eagles fans also influenced several games the team played on the road in 2017. They traveled to, and in essence “took over,” stadiums in San Diego, Los Angeles, New York, and Minnesota (Super Bowl). In each case, the Eagles won closely contested games. Eli Manning, the New York Giants’ quarterback, cited the noise of Eagles fans as the cause of his offensive teammates not being able to hear him during a game in New York.

In your career, developing a support network from mentors and colleagues, and even family and friends, can help immensely. While you may not have tens of thousands of raving fans, a select few important people invested in your success can be valuable.

6. Establish a Strong Culture and Identity

During the playoff and championship games, the Eagles and their fans rallied around the underdog status. They took pride in it, and used it to define their character. Safety Malcolm Jenkins used the slogan, “We all we got, we all we need,” to express this idea that they were in this together and that they could rely on each other. This togetherness created a support system and identity that made everyone, players and fans, feel included in something great.

Businesses should strive for the same sense of inclusiveness. Whether it is through team meals, meetings, or thoughtful project assignments, create a culture that makes employees feel that they are valuable members of the team. In turn, they will take pride in the team and be willing to work harder to contribute. Forming this sense of identity and developing “a language of your own” gives teams at work similar concepts around which they can galvanize.

7. Embrace Innovation – Take Risks

Believe it or not, data analytics was an important part of the Eagles’ success story. Coach Pederson made innovative use of the team’s analytics department. This group would analyze statistics when the Eagles were in special situations, including fourth-down plays, and provided input on the decisions Pederson would have to make. This helped Pederson make successful calls in situations that seemed risky. It led to a 20 for 29 success rate on 4th down play calls this season, including 2 for 2 in the Super Bowl.

The same concept can be applied to business. In an ever-changing business environment, embrace innovation. Implementing new technologies and encouraging fresh ideas and creativity from employees can help a company thrive. For employees, perhaps a unique opportunity for a special project or a career shift will emerge. Challenge yourself, step up, and take on a new opportunity or increased responsibility.

8. Celebrate Success but Recognize Its Risk

During the season, the Eagles proved the importance of having fun and celebrating success. Whether it was celebrations during the game like dancing to "The Electric Slide" or afterwards when Kelce crowd surfed at the championship parade, the Eagles showed achievement deserves to be celebrated. The same should be considered in business. Employees feel appreciated if their promotions or the successful completion of projects are recognized and celebrated.

However, it is also important to recognize the potential downside of success. The talent of Eagles coaches DeFilippo and Reich attracted job offers from other teams, and both have already departed for new roles elsewhere. Other coaches and players will likely make increased monetary demands as a result of the team’s success. In an environment that has a hard cap on each team’s salary allocations, this will lead to difficult decisions. The team also will face a lower player draft position and a more challenging 2018 game schedule, both of which are geared to improve league parity.

In business, there may be transfers of talent because there may not be enough room for everyone to make it to the top level. Creating a culture in which employees achieve career success and growth will attract and retain talented people to your firm or team. Even when you achieve some level of success, the question then becomes “What’s next?” It is important to stay humble and keep grinding over the long haul.

9. Respect Your Past

The Eagles’ Super Bowl victory was not only important for the current team members, but it was a moment of joy and accomplishment for those who came before them. The Eagles organization has hired former players, such as safety Brian Dawkins and running back Duce Staley, as executives and coaches. They also showed signs of respect to former players during the parade: tight-end Brent Celek wore wide receiver Harold Carmichael’s jersey, defensive lineman Fletcher Cox wore Eagles legendary defensive lineman Reggie White’s jersey, and safety Rodney McLeod wore quarterback Randall Cunningham’s jersey. The celebration was not just about this year’s team, but it was also about those who carried the torch before them.

Respect should be shown in business for our colleagues and mentors who may have retired or may have otherwise helped lay a foundation for your current team. There is much to be learned from others who shared similar experiences. Having business relationships and appreciating and recognizing those who came before us creates pride in the history of a company.

10. Embrace Family and Friends, and Understanding Motivations

The Eagles created a family-like environment this season. Whether it was owner Jeffrey Lurie dancing with players during post-game celebrations, Pedersen’s ice cream parties after meetings, or Wentz’s Bible study sessions with teammates, it was clear that the team enjoyed spending time together. Don’t underestimate the impact of family and friends. This was exhibited by fans, too. For some, the win evoked memories of loved ones who were lifelong Eagles fans but had passed away before the Super Bowl victory. For many, being an Eagles fan represents Sunday dinners and time spent with family during football season. Even casual fans could enjoy the experience and bond with more avid fans. A Super Bowl win was much more than a football victory for many Eagles fans.

In business, understand what motivates people. It is usually not all about “the work,” as important as we think our work can be. It’s often about a desire to help others, including family. Work may be a platform to help lead a better life, which is defined differently by each person. Understanding individual motivations can help leaders earn trust and drive high performance from their teams.

Conclusion

Regardless of whether you or your team wins or loses, competition can help us learn and grow. You will almost always be better for having competed, or even caring about others who compete. The Eagles have come up short in their goal 51 years in a row. But past failures make the achievements that much more rewarding – just ask the loyal fans of other previously long-suffering sports teams such as the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. There has been much inspiration and many lessons learned from watching the Philadelphia Eagles, not only during this special season, but also through prior years. Success is cumulative. It is built upon the achievements of and lessons learned by those who battled before us. And when our businesses, or our teams, succeed, it is a cause for us all to celebrate.

Rebecca Kirby, CPA, is a senior associate, tax, at Grant Thornton LLP in Philadelphia. She can be reached at rebecca.kirby@us.gt.com.

Matthew D. Melinson, CPA, is a partner, state and local tax, with Grant Thornton and a member of the Pennsylvania CPA Journal Editorial Board. He can be reached at matthew.melinson@us.gt.com.