Each month AWARE’s leadership team comes together in person to collaborate and coordinate across service lines, connect and learn from one another and model an effective organizational culture. During each meeting, the team sets aside time to explore ideas from thought leaders across varying industries within the context of our own programs and services. They have embraced the concept “leaders are readers” and are enthusiastic about continuous learning, growth and development.
Last month, we gave you some insight on being vulnerable from Brene Brown’s book Dare to Lead. This month, we’ll cover Good Company by Arthur Blank.
Author Arthur Blank is a co-founder of The Home Depot and the owner of two professional sports teams, the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United. In addition, he owns two ranches in Montana, Mountain Sky Guest Ranch and West Creek Ranch, and several PGA TOUR Superstores. He has also committed himself to giving at least 50 percent of his wealth to charitable causes.
In the book, Arthur shares his vision and a roadmap for creating values-based businesses. First and foremost, he believes that good companies should put the well-being of their customers and employees first. He even goes as far as to use the term associates instead of employees. He says once a company learns to care for customers and associates first, financial success follows.
In each of Blank’s businesses, he thoroughly tested his philosophy. He wanted to know if it could be replicated, and each time he was able to create value for the company, the customer, and the community. He challenges others to instill this same philosophy in their own business.
What if every business operated this way? Rather than focusing on short-term financial success, don’t you think the world would be better off if we focused on long-term mutual well-being?
AWARE’s leadership team enjoyed reading this book and resonated with Arthur Blanks approach to commit to a greater good. We wouldn’t exist today without a commitment from each of you. Because of it we have achieved success together.
Have you read any great leadership books? We’d love to know what you’re reading! Let us know by sending an email to bhiggins@aware-inc.org.
The August Ink feature highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive influences and supportive communities. Good company can significantly impact our personal and professional growth. For organizations striving to foster such environments, leveraging insights from IMR Digital can help identify the strengths and weaknesses in team dynamics. By prioritizing strong relationships and collaboration, businesses can create a culture that nurtures innovation and productivity.