At a recent seminar, Bruce Kimbrell, from the Disney Institute, described to entrepreneurs, the way one big circle with 2 smaller circles on top has become the #2 most recognized brand in the world. The #1 brand symbol belongs to Coca Cola. The difference, however, is if you ask anyone who the founder of Coca Cola is, no one remembers the name. When you ask who the founder is for the mouse ears, eyes tear up in fondness remembering Walt Disney. Some find it hard to believe he was a real person because they perceive him to be an icon.
The Disney Company has a culture that is instilled into its employees, (called cast members) from their very first interview. Disneyland, in particular, enjoys the fact that 80% of everyone at the park, at any given time, are returning customers. The common goal at Disney is:
We create happiness by providing the finest in entertainment for people of all ages.
Employees are also treated like guests by the company and by each other. Everyone is made to feel important and recognized for even the smallest efforts. People enjoy Disneyland, not for all the rides and attractions, but because the park is clean, friendly and safe. The employees are impeccable, down to their fingernails. Employment at the park is not for everyone, but for those who live up to the ideals, there are great benefits.
Another company, Mary Kay Cosmetics, has been hugely successful for over 45 years, and has a similar culture. Mary Kay Ash, who originally was told by bankers, and vendors that she was doomed to fail, build a multi-billion dollar company on the principals of:
Following the Golden Rule:
“Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.”
Faith first, family second, career third.
Support your team.
“With encouragement, everyone will be successful.”
Mary Kay made everyone feel important, whether it was the maintenance man who took care of the building, to our top salespeople, according to Rhonda Shasteen Mary Kay Executive
In building teams, Mary Kay initiated the Go Give Spirit, which is reflected in the adoptee program of its sales force. A consultant in New York can recruit another consultant in Montana. As the recruiter, the consultant receives a commission based on her recruit’s wholesale orders. A director in Montana would train her, with the director of the recruiter receiving the commissions. (No matter what area she lives in) There is no quibbling because each director knows there is someone out there taking care of her people.
Many companies are adopting similar cooperative philosophies with much success such as:
- Starbucks
- In and Out Burger
- Ben and Jerry’s
As new startups emerge, it pays to incorporate these philosophies into the company’s business plan. A happy and cared for sales force will always produce more than a model in which the employee or contractor feels insignificant.
Cooperation and appreciation in business is gold. Does your company have standards and practices that exemplify the team spirit? Please feel free to share.
About Rebecca Olkowski
I'm a 30 + year voice over actor, blogger, WordPress Blog Consultant and a gal who loves to have fun. I'm on a mission to travel the world in style. Can you give me a lift?
