The Problem with Purpose

This newsletter is designed to be a resource and a tool for hospitality leaders with practical strategies that you can use today! You will find insights from leaders that run hotels, restaurants, food service operations, casinos, attractions, catering businesses, and even vendors. Those insights coupled with real world experiences create powerful opportunities for application and growth.

The Problem with Purpose

Purpose, a word that’s been liberally sprinkled throughout the hospitality industry, often stands as a beacon, guiding businesses and their teams. Yet, it's alarming how often its true essence is misunderstood. Leaders may frequently interchange "purpose" with vision, mission, or short-term goals, risking the dilution of its profound impact.

In the bustling world of hospitality, standup meetings might end with rousing reminders about delivering "world-class customer service." While these statements can unite teams, shape training modules, and occasionally fuel inspiration, they aren't a stand-in for genuine purpose.

Purpose Beyond The Surface

A fundamental truth is that every team member clocks into work with a unique driving force. For some, work offers a means to secure a brighter future for their children, while for others, it’s a platform to acquire skills that pave the way for more significant opportunities. Some find purpose in schedules that make space for other passions and pursuits. Leaders who recognize these nuances hold the power to drive engagement on a deeper level.

Valerie Bihet, Owner of the Vibe Agency, states it simply yet profoundly: “Believe in what you do.” This belief, or purpose, isn't a monolithic, company-wide tagline, but a collage of individual motivations and aspirations.

Karen Totaro, General Manager of the Huntington Place Convention Center, touches on this with her statement on how each individual has “their own sense of belonging and being engaged.” A sense of belonging doesn't necessarily come from echoing a company's vision or mission; it’s rooted in aligning one's personal purpose with professional endeavors.

Decoding Purpose: The P=V+E Formula

So, how does one uncover this elusive purpose? A handy formula to remember is P= V+E, where Purpose equals Value plus Effort. To discern an individual’s purpose, it’s imperative to identify what they genuinely value and observe what they willingly exert effort towards. This effort, combined with values, often paints a clear picture of purpose.

For example, an employee who values family might put in extra effort to earn promotions or undertake training programs. Their purpose? Perhaps to offer a better quality of life for their loved ones. By recognizing this, a leader can tailor growth opportunities, work-life balance options, or financial incentives to resonate more deeply with that individual.

The Road Ahead

In the end, understanding purpose is not about shoehorning employees into a one-size-fits-all vision but about appreciating the rich tapestry of individual motivations that make up a team. By doing so, leaders don’t just maximize productivity or efficiency; they foster genuine human connections, transforming workplaces into thriving communities where everyone feels seen, valued, and inspired.

What Can You Do Today?

1. Run the Math - Identify 3-5 member of your team and work with them to determine their purpose. Find out what motivates them, what they are passionate about, and what they work hard for.
2. Plan for Purpose - Once you identify what the purpose for your 3-5 team members then sit down and determine a plan for how you can provide opportunities for them to apply effort towards what they love doing. If you can put them in a position to live their purpose then you will see outstanding results.

Let’s Use This During a Meeting or Standup?

1. Ask Why - I’ve always found that the old concept of asking why 5 times really helps you get to the root of something. In your next meeting or standup, ask members of the team why they come to work. Some will say the paycheck, others will say they love what they do, etc. Ask them why again, and see if they can be more specific. Keep doing that until you feel like you’ve reached their driving purpose. It’s a fun exercise that gets great results, and usually creates engagement.
2. Ask Your Leaders - In a leadership meeting probe what motivates your leaders around the room. Many leaders will stick to company visions or goals until you dig a bit further. Soon you will find that you can identify that all of the leaders around the room value which is like having a key to unlock super powers in leaders.

What’s Next?

Listen to the full episodes from Valerie and Karen to learn more!

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