In today's age of new and better and faster, this is one successful organization that continues to do things right.  They do it the old fashioned way, with traits and ideas that never go out of style i.e. "consistency."

As leaders, we can learn a lot from the Bright Star restaurant.  Here are some things that I will try to apply in my role as a leader

1.  Make customers for life

As we entered the restaurant, we were led to a back room by an older gentlemen, who I figured may have been one of the owners.  I introduced myself and stated that this was my first visit.  He was extremely thankful that we attended, and then proceeded to bring out six cups of VERY delicious gumbo.  "Every first timer gets a free cup of gumbo!" he told us.  This unexpected surprise added to my overall experience (and no joke - this WAS good gumbo).

When you encounter customers for the first time, what do you do to move them from regular customer to LOYAL customers.  After all, 6 small cups of gumbo is a small price to pay for repeat and loyal visitors.  Plus, what about all the free marketing?  Who knows how many people will read this blog and make a trip to The Bright Star...

2.    Remember that "caring" never goes out of style

The service we received last night was impeccable.  Attentive, without being pushy.  And everyone, from the hostess to the other employees, seemed genuinely concerend that we would enjoy our experience.

The bottom line is that great leaders CARE!  They care about their employees, they care about their customers and they care about the bottom line.  How much time do you spend each day "caring?"

3.    Be willing to share the history of your organization

As we were walking towards the exit, I mentioned to a different waitress that I heard that former Alabama football Coach Bear Bryant used to eat there.  She beamed from ear to ear and walked us over to a corner booth.  It was secluded by three walls, and a portrait of "The Bear" hung on the far wall.  The co-owner, who sat us earlier, also came over and shared a quick story about Coach Bryant and his booth.  As my wife is a graduate of the University of Alabama, you can safely say she was excited.

The waitress could have pointed to the booth.  She could have told us we could not see it.  The owner could have gone about his business.  But they made time to share something with us...something as small as the history of a restaurant booth.

How about you?  As a leader, do you know the history of your organization, or the building you are in?  But more importantly, will you take 2-3 minutes to share it with an employee or customer? 

I hope these three tips help you become a great leader in the upcoming week.  Will I be returning to The Bright Star?  You bet I will.  And you can bet your bottom dollar I'll be having a bowl of gumbo (hopefully in Bear's booth).