The dictionary definition of the word elite is to be superior in quality, rank, or skill. We hear this term a lot when talking about elite colleges, elite athletes, or elite status. As we look across the landscape of business culture today, we see things are changing quickly. Today, trends point to the fact that millennials and Gen Z’s would rather be part of an organization that is committed to a mission rather than making more money. As working from home becomes the new normal for many industries, employees now have new options available to them. In fact, now people can decide where they want to live, and then find a job that fits their lifestyle.
ELITE Acronym
- Excellence in the Ordinary: Organizations that create of culture of pursuing excellence–even in daily, mundane tasks–are usually the ones who have the most success. They find a way to make the boring tasks fun, exciting, and repeatable.
- Legendary Focus: Organizations that create a culture of focusing on long-term success are more interested in benefitting others years down the road and are focused on how decisions now will impact people later. They don’t allow themselves to get distracted with trying to copy other cultures, but know what they stand for and are focused on the long-term results of their dedicated focus.
- Innovative Systems: Just ask Blockbuster if they wish they would have innovated their strategy when Netflix tried to partner with them. Blockbuster was the giant in the industry and felt that they didn’t need to change. Netflix now brings in more than 25 billion dollars in revenue per year while Blockbuster struggles to survive. Elite cultures know when to take calculated risks, even when it means adapting new habits, thoughts, or strategies.
- Tribe Mentality: People who do CrossFit are part of more than just a workout class. They are part of an elite tribe. They develop friendships that provide comradery, accountability, and inspiration to work hard and get better each day. Similarly, employees who choose to work at Chick Fil A are placed in small groups where they form trusting relationships and develop meaningful friendships. This pays huge dividends in creating a supportive and unified work environment. Elite organizations are intentional about fostering a culture that feels like family.
- Enthralling Vision: According to a recent Duke University study, more than 90% of executives said that culture is important at their firm, and 78% said that culture is one of the top five things that make their company valuable. Despite having a profound effect on organizations, culture remains an elusive concept. Only 15% of CEOs admit to having the culture they desire. In Elite cultures, however, leaders are able to cast a vision that captures the hearts of their people. As they create an environment of trust, they help their people not only see the vision, but also show them how they personally fit into that vision.
About the Author: Alex Demczak is a former SEC quarterback, Author of Thrive U, and Motivational speaker. Alex challenges businesses, schools, sports teams, and non-profits to maximize their potential and make a difference. Alex is currently booking virtual workshops, one on one coaching, and in person speaking engagements for 2020-2021. You can follow Alex on Instagram at @AlexDemczak or connect with him at www.AlexSpeaking.com