The Story of My J’s

“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” ~ #23

I have a skin on my laptop that reads “Great communication isn’t automatic, it’s something you fight like hell to achieve.” Given Communication is one of my hallmark “7Cs of Leadership,” it shouldn’t surprise you that this quote sticks not only to my computer, but to me at all times. With so many different avenues and media for communications these days, I’ll admit that I still enjoy the good ol’ fashioned town hall meeting with my team.

Over the years, I’ve morphed my town halls – from team to team – to take on a more informal tone, in fact we call them “Chat with Chow” sessions. Of course, during these gatherings we still cover a range of important topics including the state of our business, what’s top of mind for our customers and people, and reinforcement of our key focus areas. I’ve also been impressed with numerous leaders I’ve had the opportunity to work with – both inside and outside my organization – who have become masterful at utilizing their town halls in unique and engaging ways.

Prior to a recent “Chat with Chow” discussion, some of my folks challenged me to wear some “J’s” (instead of what might be considered typical corporate garb). For those of you not familiar with the reference, they wanted me to wear a very particular type of footwear. Well, if you know me, you know that I do love shoes. If you really know me, you know that I’m up for challenges of nearly any kind. So, of course, I was happy to oblige.

Given my brother lived in Chicago in the late 80’s/early 90’s, I am very familiar with the renowned #23. Over the past three-plus decades, the sneakers inspired by him, his name, and his game have literally transformed an industry, paving brand-new fashion and cultural ground. Admittedly, I’ve never worn any of the famed J’s before so I had to seek professional help to secure a pair that were “just right”. It probably won’t surprise you that I opted for the originals, nicknamed “breds” for obvious reasons. I loved the story of the shoes getting banned by the basketball association when initially worn because they were “non-regulation” colors. Of course, he didn’t stop wearing them, and thus, the foundation for the shoes’ legend and legacy began.

I am absolutely positive that there are major “J aficionados” out there. In fact, I was just reading an article about how the favored footwear fashion for today’s man is the sneaker. I love the ongoing storied nature of these J’s – made famous by an epic athlete, with an immense amount of skill and will, both on and off the court – laced (pun intended) with a bit of maverick, rebellion, and innovation to boot (get it?). How something so simple transformed an industry and continues to shape culture spanning numerous generations, is intriguing. It’s also fascinating that what’s old is made new again, and the vintage, timeless nature of J’s, increases their value, versus so many other things where the opposite is true with commoditization over time.

In many ways, we strive for the same in business, don’t we? That is to build on a foundation of unique value, memorable style, imagination, desirability, and yes, of course, function. Shouldn’t we be aspiring to also spark an evolution – and perhaps even a revolution – in support of our customers in ways they never dreamed possible? Don’t we want to continue the legacy of innovation in a distinctive manner that keeps us in the lead, second to none, transforming and transforming again? Importantly, through our incomparable products and services, we communicate with our customers and to all those around us in ways to intrigue; building upon their interest to spark consideration and ultimately action.

What do you think? Certainly, in today’s world, when a single Tweet or video can go viral in seconds, we have an exciting opportunity to communicate with each other, shaping and influencing numerous transformations, would you agree?

I’d love to hear your reactions and thoughts to this. And by all means, if there are J collectors and admirers out there, please share your story (and your shoes – how many pairs do you have, and which are your faves?!).