GUEST POST by John Howman from Allied Consuting Group
Sometimes when I think about corporate culture, it reminds me of the 1964 quote from Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart about pornography. As he said, “It’s hard to describe, but I know it when I see it.” And I love encountering organizations that focus on their culture.
I’ve noticed that whenever I am in a Trader Joe’s, the staff is happy, friendly, and overall some of the best retail employees around. A good friend turned me on to the Inside Trader Joe’s podcast, which is well worth a listen if you like Trader Joe’s.
Episode 56 is an inside look at the Trader Joe’s Captain’s meeting. Why “The Captain’s Meeting?” The store managers aren’t called “Store Managers,” they’re called “Captains.” Associates are “Mates.” And while interviewing the Captains, it was clear they understood their #1 strategic priority, which is to grow and develop other Captains and Mates. The Captains’ goal is to grow two new Captains in the next eight years.
I love the fact that the Captains are being asked to think strategically about the next eight years! Here’s a quote from Captain Jay, in California:
“We have an obligation to provide talent for our company to grow at a controlled rate. You know, I’ve been able to promote, help a Captain get promoted, which is probably the highlight of my career personally. A lot of people did a lot of amazing things for me to be where I am. Paying it forward is definitely one of the things that I think about every single day.”
I believe the best way to solve the employment crisis for most companies is to create a great culture, and grow your team from within.
Good luck with YOUR culture. You’ll know it when you see it.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
As a serial entrepreneur, business and community leader since 1983, John Howman has led a variety of businesses, from technology to consumer products companies. He leads two groups for Vistage, a professional development group for CEOs, presidents and business owners. He can be reached at JHowman@AlliedCG.com