Make a difference about something
other than yourselves. – Toni Morrison
In an
interview with Open Forum (http://amex.co/SDQOLd), Johnny Rocket’s CEO John Fuller
offered some fascinating business insights. Fuller says that one of their guiding
principles is to be a difference maker verses a care taker. He explained that
he wants people to feel that they can influence the department they are running
in a proactive way.
Now in 32
states and 16 countries, this key concept among others is part of the formula
for the success of Johnny Rockets. But make no mistake; the principles Fuller
shares are not exclusive to the restaurant industry. Johnny Rockets is
successful because the principles Fuller lays out are grounded squarely in
smart leadership.
The strength
of your organization or business will be determined by how well your team
members carry out the same philosophy. Do you want your team members to be
difference makers or care takers? When you embrace the difference maker
philosophy it will change the culture of your organization. Here are three reasons why it matters.
Difference makers go the extra-mile. Difference makers are not content
to settle for mediocre service or performance. Difference makers have one goal
in mind and that is to consistently deliver exceptional service without
excuses.
The
leadership characteristic that drives the difference maker here is passion.
When your team members are passionate about delivering value, and when they
care about the company’s reputation, then they will go the extra mile and see
to it personally that excellence is never sacrificed.
Difference makers turn problems into
possibilities. Be it
the restaurant industry or any other service-based business, good customer
service is the life blood of your operation.
How many potential possibilities are wasted every day because someone
could not see past the problem or act to correct it?
The
leadership skill in play here is empowerment. Think for a moment of the
positive impact that can be made when team members are empowered to resolve
problems and act in good faith on behalf of the organization. Face it; we are human and we all make
mistakes. Do not make matters worse by not empowering your team to do the right
thing, the right way, and right now. When you empower your difference makers
you are unleashing the power of leadership.
Difference makers are the future of
your organization. When
difference makers are trained and understand the vision and expectations of
your organization it is the best long term investment you can make. People are
the most appreciable asset you have in the operation of your business. When you
invest in them they will deliver for you.
The
leadership model here is legacy. Difference makers build your brand not just
for the benefit of today but secure it for the future. When you commit to the
expectation of team members being difference makers you send the message loud
and clear – we are not here to be care takers.
Are you a
difference maker?
* Your comments are appreciated! Please share your thoughts in the box below.
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