“Don’t take credit for other people’s work.” This simple yet powerful statement from Unreasonable Hospitality (p. 150) sets the tone for one of the most important lessons in leadership: acknowledge and celebrate the skills of your team. It’s not just about giving credit where it’s due; it’s about building a culture that empowers your employees to shine. By creating mini-celebrities out of your staff, you’re giving them the recognition they deserve, and in turn, enhancing your business’s overall experience.
Let’s explore why this is so essential and how you can make your team the stars of your show.
Why Creating Mini-Celebrities Matters
When your staff feels like they’re at the center of something special, they bring that energy to every interaction. Customers don’t just want a product or service—they want an experience. And experiences are shaped by the people delivering them. When your team feels recognized, valued, and empowered, they show up with more enthusiasm, pride, and genuine care.
It’s simple: happy employees create happy customers. Think about your favorite local café. You’re not just there for the coffee; you’re there because the barista remembers your name, your order, and makes your day brighter. By highlighting and celebrating the unique skills and passions of your team, you give customers more chances to connect. You'll likely get new customers because they’ve heard of that standout employee and want to be a part of what they’re creating.
Tangible Ways to Create Mini-Celebrities in Your Business
Highlight Their Strengths & Passions Make it personal. If your team members have special skills or interests, find ways to showcase them. Do you have a barista who’s also a latte art champion? Feature them on social media, or let them create a signature drink. A sales associate who loves interior design— Let them share styling tips in your monthly email. This not only makes employees feel seen but also builds unique experiences that customers will love.
Celebrate Wins—Big & Small Celebrating your team’s wins doesn’t have to
be a grand affair. Recognize both small achievements (like receiving positive feedback from a customer) and big milestones (like hitting sales targets). Host team shout-outs on social media, create a “Wall of Fame” in-store, or give surprise treats for a job well done. This culture of recognition builds a sense of accomplishment and motivates employees to keep shining.
Empower Authenticity Encourage your team to bring their authentic selves to work. When employees can be themselves, it builds trust with customers and makes interactions feel more genuine. Allow your staff the freedom to add their own style, whether that’s how they greet customers, recommend products, or engage on social media. Example— At a fitness studio, a trainers can share their favorite workouts or playlists. This is more likely to create a loyal following. Clients will appreciate the authentic touch and look forward to each session.
Invest in Their Growth The more knowledgeable your team is, the better they can serve your customers. When employees are educated about their craft and can confidently share their skills, they earn more recognition—and that brings a bigger audience to them and your business. Offer training courses, workshops, or opportunities to learn new skills. It’s a win-win: your team grows, and your business stands out. Example— In a restaurant, if a chef or server learns about new culinary techniques or local ingredients, encourage them to share that knowledge with diners. Customers will appreciate the expertise and be more inclined to return, knowing they’re learning something new.
Why Create Attention for Standout Employees?
In Unreasonable Hospitality, Guidara notes that “the more attention people got, the more job offers they got too.” This might sound risky—what if your best people leave? But here’s the key: don’t let fear hold you back. Instead, focus on creating an environment where your team feels so valued and cared for that they wouldn’t want to leave. When you celebrate your employees and invest in their growth, they’ll be more likely to stick around because they see a future with you.
As Guidara puts it, “I prefer to make decisions based on hope, rather than fear.” By betting on your team’s potential, you’re building a business that’s full of energy, passion, and loyalty.
Make It Personal & Meaningful
The beauty of creating mini-celebrities within your team is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all strategy. It’s all about finding what makes your people unique and celebrating that. When your team feels like rockstars, it creates a ripple effect that reaches your customers, your community, and ultimately, your bottom line.
So, the next time you’re looking for ways to improve your customer experience, start by looking at your team. How can you make them feel like the stars they are? Investing in your people is investing in your business. And when your team shines, your brand will shine right along with them.
At July House, we’re here to help you grow, connect, and achieve success. Book an audit with us and let’s us help you elevate your business!
Until next time, keep growing! 🌟
America
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