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Technorati“Too often, the people who are rewarded with big salaries are the ones who are the most distant from the customer,” he said. “But in reality, the people in the corporate center aren’t the ones who make the most money for the company.”
To encourage the many young people who work the front lines and to help them reach their full potential, Chick-fil-A offers numerous incentives. Truett Cathy established the Leadership Scholarship Program, which gives $1,000 scholarships to qualifying employees to the school of their choice. Since 1973, more than $23.3 million in scholarships has been awarded. In 2008, Chick-fil-A will award $1.4 million in scholarships to restaurant team members.
Reaching out to the community is also strongly emphasized. Chick-fil-A’s main philanthropic efforts include the WinShape Foundation, which consists of programs to “shape winners” including WinShape Camps, WinShape College, WinShape Retreat, WinShape Marriage, WinShape Wilderness, WinShape International, and WinShape Homes.
Dan is quick to point out that success isn’t a given in any business. And carrying that success into the next generation can be just as difficult as starting a new business.
“Dad is much more entrepreneurial than I am,” stated Dan. “He knows how to make a buck. My skill set is different and may be more appropriate for where the company is at today.”
And the third generation of Cathy’s will bring with them even more eclectic styles and gifts. Dan’s son, Andrew is currently involved in the family business. He opened his own Chick-fil-A restaurant in 2006. Andrew’s younger brother, Ross, is also interested in following in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps but has not yet been hired.
Dan noted the importance of seeking an understanding of corporate life from an outside perspective. Just as Andrew did, Ross is currently working for at least two years outside the family business before he can come to work there.
“It’s important to be part of the value system,” said Dan, of his sons. “They need to know business but value systems are more important.”
There is little doubt the value systems Ross and Andrew will pick up from their father will include going the extra mile; second mile service into the next generation.
Theresia Whitfield is an award-winning writer/journalist and is published in more than two-dozen national and international magazines and newspapers. She also provides corporate writing through her company, Fletcher Communications. She lives in Indianapolis, IN with her husband.
