During an economic climate plagued by uncertainty, mistrust and fear, and in a sport scarred by doping scandals and corruption, the SF Giants historic victory provides a beacon of hope for better days ahead. Arguably some of the credit has to recognize the SF Giants' leadership who did a stellar job in building the team, providing stewardship over the franchise and creating a climate for success. So how can the SF Giants serve as a model for all businesses?
Create a team-first atmosphere – in stark contrast to the grossly overpaid and notably underperforming NY Yankees, the SF Giants World Series victory taught us that building a great franchise is not about hiring the biggest stars, it’s about building the best TEAM that is able to put ego aside and work together.
Treat your employees like your family – when the SF Giants traveled to Dallas for World Series Playoff games 3-5, management chartered a 747 for their 200 employees and guests. Why?
“Staff bonding," says Giants senior vice president of communication Staci Slaughter, whose team chartered a 747 for 200 employees and their guests. "It's not very often you get to do this. You want to make sure everyone from the ticket sellers to the front-office staff have the opportunity to experience this." (link to NPR article)
Have a heart – Established in 1991, The Giants Community Fund has donated over $11 million to community efforts focusing on underserved youth and their families. High profile and well respected, the Fund ‘supports Junior Giants leagues throughout Northern California, Nevada and Oregon and provides assistance to targeted community initiatives in the areas of Education, Health and Violence Prevention.' (from The Giants Community Fund)
Play to your customer – a self-proclaimed band of misfits and castoffs, the SF Giants consistently played to their fan base who for 56 years Did Not Stop Believing that a World Championship victory was possible. We will not likely forget any time soon Brian Fear the Beard Wilson, Aubry Huff and his Rally Thong, long-haired Tim The Freak Lincecum, nor crowd-pleasing Short Stop Oooh-Ri-Bey!
Instill a Strong Work Ethic – while celebrity ego has been blamed for impeding other MLB teams, the 2010 SF Giants are known for their home-grown talent, nurtured to show up to practices on time and come armed with focus and determination.
"The mix of development and coaching with individual talent and work ethic has brought a foursome to the forefront of the Giants' run to and through October 2010. It's the kind of group you don't see very often, as the World Series history dating back to 1986 indicates." (10/29/10 Homegrown Giants spinning October magic, By John Schlegel / MLB.com)
The days of corporate greed, staggering executive salaries and management who is out of touch with their customer base are at an end. I believe, that future success will rely more on a work culture that breeds pride, loyalty, and job sucess. It's obvious---if your workers are invested in a positive outcome, they will undoubtedly be more committed and higher performing.