Attention to Detail in Business

In my almost 30 years of experience in the restaurant, hospitality, and marketing industries, one thing has stood out as a key ingredient to success? Attention to detail. Whether I’m managing a large team, overseeing operations, or handling social media strategies, the smallest details really can make the biggest difference.

Having attention to detail isn't just about catching typos or fixing mistakes—it's about setting the foundation for excellence in everything you do. From my early days working as a server and bartender in restaurants to my leadership roles, I've learned that being detail-oriented is what helps businesses run smoothly and grow.

Building Systems that Work

During my time in restaurant management, I implemented various systems like online scheduling & communications, online reservations, and new point-of-sale management. These tools helped the restaurant run efficiently, but they only worked because of the attention to detail put into setting them up, training staff, and constantly reviewing and improving the processes.

A system is only as good as the thought and care behind it, and it's crucial to focus on every detail.

Engaging with People

Attention to detail doesn’t just apply to operations - it’s absolutely vital in how you engage with people. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about building relationships with my teams, customers, and community. Whether I'm training staff or interacting with guests (I never called them customers), paying attention to the small details of how people communicate, what motivates them, and how they respond has been crucial. This attention has helped me build high-performing teams and create meaningful connections with our community.

Simple analogy I think of is to be a successful bartender or hospitality server, you not only have to have a sense of urgency and control, but also a keen attention to detail in what you are doing now, and what you need to do next. All while ensuring you don't lose focus on the little details in conversation or tasks to excel. Not every task can be done the same, and not every guest or individual can be conversed with the same way, so the details absolutely matter.

Social Media Success

In my roles managing social media pages for varying companies, I’ve learned that every word, image, and interaction counts. Crafting posts that resonate with the audience, selecting the right images, and responding thoughtfully to comments - all require a keen eye for detail. Small things like the timing of a post or the tone of a message can have a big impact on engagement and brand perception.

It's also why I don't take managing a brand that is not my own lightly. Needing to understand everything there is about the company first, to ensure that the voice and online presence matches who it is, while taking my ego out of the equation. Those details absolutely matter in delivering an authentic message and conversation to the audience.

During my time at Joe Social Media, I managed multiple client accounts and helped businesses craft their unique voice online. Each client was uniquely different, and it was important to understand the details of their brand, values, and audience.

It is comforting to work closely with a client, having them acknowledge and trust that you appreciate the small details about their business. Who they are, what they are, why they are, and how they operate.

Continuous Improvement

This isn’t just about getting things right the first time; it’s also about constantly looking for ways to improve. Throughout my career, I’ve always been passionate about learning new skills and adapting to new technologies. From early BBS on my 2400 baud dial-up modem, to modern social media platforms, I’ve always paid attention to how technology can improve business and communication, let alone personal branding and interactions. By focusing on the details of new systems and tools, I’ve been able to streamline operations and drive growth for the businesses I’ve worked with and for.

Why It Matters

In any business, whether you're running a restaurant, managing a marketing campaign, or leading a team, attention to detail absolutely key to achieving success. It helps build strong systems, creates meaningful relationships, and ensures that your business stands out from the rest.

For me, attention to detail has always been about more than just avoiding mistakes - it's about creating an environment where everything runs smoothly, people feel valued, and businesses thrive. When we pay attention to the small things, we build a foundation for long-term success.

By focusing on the details in your own business, you can create a culture of excellence that drives growth, engages customers, and builds lasting relationships. After all, it’s the little things that often make the biggest difference.

I will continue to live by that.