---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: You see, the thing about working with…"
description: "\"“You see, the thing about working with pirates is that they know what they are doing. They already know more than you do because they are sailing and r..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/963/olivier-blanchard-70390_kindlehighlight_you-see-the-thing-about-working-with-pir_911978.jpg"
---

#  You see, the thing about working with pirates is that they…

![“You see, the thing about working with pirates is that they know what they are doing. They already know more than you do because they are sailing and raiding. They are the experts in your organization, and you need to get them on your side, not turn them against you. Here is how to deal with a…” quote by Olivier Blanchard](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/963/olivier-blanchard-70390_kindlehighlight_you-see-the-thing-about-working-with-pir_911978.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/963/olivier-blanchard-70390_kindlehighlight_you-see-the-thing-about-working-with-pir_911978.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/963/olivier-blanchard-70390_kindlehighlight_you-see-the-thing-about-working-with-pir_911978.jpg)

> ““You see, the thing about working with pirates is that they know what they are doing. They already know more than you do because they are sailing and raiding. They are the experts in your organization, and you need to get them on your side, not turn them against you. Here is how to deal with a pirate ship model in ten simple steps: 1. Respect the pirates. (They know how to execute.) 2. Invite the pirates to the table. Recognize their wins. 3. Ask the pirates to report on what they see and hear. 4. Ask the pirates to report on their wins and losses. 5. Ask the pirates how you can help them win more…””

Olivier Blanchard

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Leverage the expertise of unconventional team members by respecting and integrating their insights, turning potential threats into assets.

**In simple terms:** Use outsiders’ knowledge to improve your organization.

Key Takeaway

Engage and empower unconventional experts.

Themes

leadership integration strategy

Mood

analytical pragmatic strategic

Type

advice instructional practical

When to use this quote

- project management
- innovation
- team building
- conflict mediation

Key Concepts

organizational behavior risk management collaboration

Questions to Reflect On

- What steps ensure outsider input aligns with goals?
- How to balance respect with authority?

A Different Perspective

Overreliance on outsiders may dilute core values.

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[River](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/river/) [Wins and losses](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/wins-and-losses/)

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