Disney

Up from the Hub archives. Originally published 2007

Whatever is actually said in words, this, below, is the real dialogue going on between great leaders and people they inspire.

This dialogue is also going on within great leaders. It was once said of Walt Disney by one of his closest colleagues, "Walt had no fear." I don't think that's quite right. I think he overcame fear - particularly of the unknown - in himself and inspired others to step out into the unknown with him. That's what great leaders do.

Up from the Hub archives. Originally published 2007

Well, this wasn't actually my creativity strategy, but it's become known as 'Disney's Creativity Strategy'. Hub member Peter Cook asked a question about it a while ago, and I notice a whole debate is opening up this week in The Hub about creativity and how to lead it (look in Peter Cook's entry in the Ask The Expert section of The Hub), so thought I'd add this  to the theme:

These five learning points are all extracted from the book How To Be Like Walt, by Pat Williams with Jim Denney. I know you're busy, so I read the book for you.  

1. GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY

Don't be afraid to roll your sleeves up and get out there where the customers are.

1. CONNECT WITH PEOPLE ON A PERSONAL LEVEL

"Whenever anyone called him Mr. Disney he got upset. It was always Walt. And he always knew your name. In the early days, we didn't wear name tags, but Walt still called you by your first name. Once he knew your name, he never forgot it."
- Gary Carlson, Disney Sound Engineer

* * *

2. ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO LEARN

One thing I've always liked about how Disney prepares the 'cast members' at its theme parks is a story I heard about them. 

No matter what your official role, if you are the nearest cast member to a guest in a park, then how they feel is your responsibility.