by Tim Redmond - the Leadership and Wealth Creation Coach
Arguably the most innovative figure in modern-day aviation . . . who is this?
It's David Neeleman, the CEO and founder of the growing and consistently profitable JetBlue Airlines. With his unique approach to building and running a business, he is creating amazing results in a very troubled industry.
A recent article in Fast Company (one of my favorite magazines!), featured David and some of his "back to the basics" flying lessons - great reminders for us as leaders. With each point, I've quoted Neeleman and have written an "action item" worthy of your attention . . .
1. Do more for customers. JetBlue is becoming popular by offering a low cost fare with amenities like leather seats and live satellite TVs. "I don't care if they don't notice everything we do - just as long as they notice something that's different about us."
What are you doing to create positive defining moments for those you lead and serve?
2. Only the Paranoid Survive. This line is taken from Andy Grove's 1996 book by the same title (a good read!). Neeleman is always on the lookout for complacency - especially when things are going well. "When you're making money and good margins, you tend to get sloppy."
Is it time to take a "competency vs complacency" inventory?
3. Actions speak louder than words. Teamwork means nothing to Neeleman unless he lives it. You'll see him passing out snacks with the attendants and staying behind to help clean the plane. "You can't ask employees to do something you wouldn't be willing to do yourself."
Leadership doesn't just tell the way, it shows the way. Are you the pattern for others to follow?
4. The best culture polices itself. Accountability is key. It's not just the managers doing it - all of the employees consider this to be part of their job. "If you treat a fellow crewmember or a customer badly, there's enough people around here who care about profit sharing and the JetBlue culture that you're going to hear about it later."
Without accountability, nothing improves. Nothing. If you want help setting up an positive and effective accountability system, please send me an email.
I trust these thoughts stirred your thinking. The world is a better place because you exercised your leadership today!
Tim Redmond
Redmond Leadership Institute
Copyright 2004 RLI and Tim Redmond
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