A Leadership Journey from Sushi to Success: Lessons from Bobby

I used to manage a sushi restaurant, in Scotland. The restaurant scene in Glasgow is similar to its security or ice cream business—often not solely about food. I have stories involving Glasgow gangsters, the true nature of restaurants as fronts, and politely declining court testimony, which I'll take to the grave—or share with you over a pint. However, today, I want to focus on my former co-manager, whom we'll call Bobby.

There's so many people who taught me things about leadership, including how to "build a team who will literally walk through fire for you," as noted in my last performance review. Bobby stands out as one of my earliest influences. Before his stint with sushi, Bobby managed a McDonald's. Their training program must be legit. Post-sushi, he ventured into the police force, specializing in the K9 unit, affectionately known as "the dogs" in Glasgow. His tenure ended due to an unusual talent—he transformed a formidable German shepherd into the friendliest police dog imaginable. Bobby now owns a gym where he helps people in achieving their fitness goals.

He possessed a remarkable knack for rallying everyone to work alongside him, including myself, and I'm not easily won over. Bobby operated by the principle of never asking someone to do something he wouldn't do himself. Whether it was as mundane as taking out the trash at closing or stepping in with a guitar to salvage a failing live music night in the bar upstairs, he led by example. His infectious positivity, sense of humor, and genuine concern for those under his supervision made him a tidal wave of inspiration. Bobby would have excelled as a leader in any agency. In the current climate, we direly need more individuals who can assess their actions and steer creatives toward progress.

Here's where our problems lie:

• Creative agencies, in-house teams, and marketing or communications managers are confronting significant challenges, including time constraints, budget limitations, and too few opportunities for professional advancement.

• During performance evaluations, professional growth often narrows down to technical courses for acquiring new skills or presentation workshops for enhancing pitching abilities. While beneficial, these approaches overlook numerous vital aspects of our profession.

• When employees perceive their development as a low priority for a company, they are more likely to leave.

How can we address this:

• Productivity and Efficiency: Studies indicate that companies with robust professional development programs witness 34% higher productivity. By investing in your team's growth, you're investing in your agency's success.

• Staff Retention and Talent Acquisition: Surveys reveal that 94% of employees are inclined to stay longer at companies that prioritize their career development. Empowering your team also cultivates loyalty and commitment.

• Workplace skills: The elephant in the room. Many essential skills are traditionally acquired through trial and error. Failing and hoping never to do so again. But where is the training for effective communication, budget management, time management, stress management, navigating inter-office dynamics, adapting to remote work environments, fostering creative problem-solving, and more?

• Creativity and Innovation: Organizations fostering a strong learning culture are 92% more likely to innovate and 17% more profitable. A mindset of creativity and innovation, propels your people and your agency forward.

• Client Satisfaction: Equipping your team with necessary skills leads to exceptional results and client experiences that surpass expectations. Soft skill training programs are proven to yield a 250% return on investment, ensuring long-term success.

Professional development is a strategic investment in your agency's future. Follow 'Bobby's' example and dedicate yourself to enhancing the value of your business while nurturing the next generation of creative talent. Offer more than just inspiration; provide them with valuable insights, skills, and tools.

As you were.

MrMcK.