"Anticipate something is going to happen and make sure you're prepared for it. The number one thing in your business ought to be safety"
Key Moments
01:37 Importance of balancing utilities for large spaces.
03:27 Manage emergency procedures for large spaces and staff.
08:25 Practice strong procedures, simulations, and emergency readiness.
11:25 Identify preplanned command center outside danger zone.
13:16 Delegate authority and be accessible during emergencies.
Resources
Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694
Balancing operational needs is like solving a puzzle—every piece matters. Whether it's keeping the room temperature comfortable or managing electricity costs, leaders work to find the sweet spot to ensure both efficiency and comfort. One operational need that cannot be overstressed is emergency preparedness. At Disney, we always emphasize: call 911 first, then act. Clear procedures and regular practice can save lives. It doesn't matter how big or small your organization is; readiness is key.
There are a number of ways to balance the operational needs of an organization. During this episode I share ways you can maintain safety and efficiency in high-pressure situations. Three areas of focus include:
These strategies are not just limited to large-scale operations. Even smaller organizations can adopt these principles by being proactive and prioritizing safety and efficiency. Make sure to listen to episode 512 of Creating Disney Magic for more practical advice on balancing operational needs.
"Development's hard. You have to have the guts to sit down and talk to somebody and tell them some hard news sometimes. Training's easy. Everybody loves the training. It's just learning something."
Key Moments
01:20 Uniqueness of training vs development
03:23 Learning through training vs. development of personal growth and behavior
06:54 Positive feedback creates more secure and productive employees
11:38 Cockerell Academy courses available as standalone courses on CockerellStore.com
Resources
Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694
Leaders everywhere need to have a strong understanding of the difference between development and correction. In a 2016 episode of Creating Disney Magic Jody and I talked about training and development. During this conversation we dive deeper into the difference between development and correction.
As I grew as a leader I became more clear on the differences between development vs. Training. Training is the easier part—it's about making sure your employees are learning specific skills. That means someone is teaching a skill or a task. Development, on the other hand, is individualized and focuses on personal growth and behavior. One-size-fits-all training can't replace the tailored, one-on-one interactions that true development requires.
There is a correction as part of development. Effective development isn't just about correcting mistakes; it's about building a person up. Praise and positive feedback play a vital role in fostering a good attitude and encouraging continual improvement.
Leaders can make sure they are creating the right environment through intentional training. People are more likely to develop positively when they feel valued and cared for. Your job as a leader isn't just to correct behavior but to create a culture where individuals can flourish.
Check out the full episode for more on how you can create a supportive environment that drives both personal and professional growth. Don't miss out on this essential conversation.
"Always do what they expect and then give them something they don't expect. A little plus it up. Give them a little bit more."
Key Moments
02:00 Overcoming insecurity through experience and hospitality.
05:44 Exceed expectations by adding a little extra.
09:05 Appreciate the little things makes life happier.
12:20 Avoiding PowerPoint in presentations to increase engagement.
15:55 More ways to learn from Lee
Resources
Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694
It felt like time to take a walk down memory lane to revisit a never-before-heard episode. Jody and I recorded for the very first time together at the 2015 Podcast Movement. This throwback episode highlights timeless lessons on leadership, management, and customer service.
Three key takeaways from the episode:
Embrace Connection: At conferences or any networking events, don't shy away from introducing yourself. Building relationships and connecting with others can lead to invaluable learning experiences and opportunities.
Plus It Up: Inspired by Walt Disney's philosophy, always strive to give a little extra in everything you do. Whether it's adding a thoughtful touch or going the extra mile, those small efforts can leave a lasting impression.
The Power of Small Things: Often, it's not the grand gestures but the small, consistent acts of kindness and appreciation that build strong relationships and a positive work environment. Focus on the little things, and the big things will take care of themselves.
Catch the full episode for more ways to create magic in your organization.
In hiring, clarity is key. Lay it out upfront: the hard work, long hours, and expectations. Magic happens not by chance but by setting clear, honest expectations. Be transparent to avoid disappointment later.
Entry-level work can be brutal. It's essential to prepare newcomers for the reality they’re stepping into. At Disney, we show them all aspects of the job, not just the glamorous parts. Honesty builds stronger teams. One way of making sure you build strong teams is by starting with strong training and setting expectations. They aren't just corporate buzzwords; they're fundamentals. If the team fails, often it's on leadership for not being clear or thorough enough. Train well and communicate often.
Professionalism goes beyond skill. It’s showing up, looking presentable, and acting the part. We can't assume new hires know the basics. Outline every detail, no matter how small. Better over-informed than underprepared. Every role, from housekeeper to manager, deserves clear communication about what it entails. Sugarcoating helps no one. Respect your team by being brutally honest about the work ahead. Authenticity breeds trust and success.
Remember, we're not just hiring bodies. We’re shaping futures, and the clearer we are, the more successful they’ll be. Let’s make sure they know everything they need to thrive.
Make sure to listen to episode 509 "Be Clear About What it Is Like to Work With You" for more on setting clear expectations up front.
Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694
01:03 Frustrations with work, lack of promotion, stress, and discontent.
05:49 Performance depends on clarity with training and expectations.
08:33 Be on time and excel for advancement.
09:27 Differences in generational knowledge and awareness.
"Don't underestimate the influence you have every day on other people around you."
Key Moments
01:14 Family and Leadership
04:06 The Importance of Building Strong Family Relationships
08:19 Sharing Knowledge and Experiences
11:27 The Importance of Hard Decisions
13:53 Power of Influence
Resources
Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694
Don't Underestimate What You Can Accomplish
Leadership starts at home. Parenting taught me clarity and trust. A while back my son, Daniel Cockerell, interviewed me about leadership and parenting. It was recorded during the early days of Dan’s own podcasting venture. Our conversation highlights leadership lessons from a variety of personal and professional experiences.
Whether you are a parent or in a management role it is imerative to have clarity and consistency. Providing clear expectations and addressing issues head-on is crucial. It builds trust and ensures everyone knows where they stand. The key is finding the balance between being serious and showing love.
One thing I learned over the years is that kids and employees like to know the bigger picture and their role in it. They love to ask, "why?" Everyone’s contribution makes a difference when they see the broader impact of their work. It doesn't matter is they are a parking enforcement officer, hospitality worker, or child at school. They want to understand the greater purpose behind the work they are being asked to do.
Often people overestimate what they can accomplish in a day and underestimate what they can accomplish in a year. Stay focused on long-term goals while acknowledging daily progress. Remember, your actions today shape the future. Don’t underestimate the influence you have on those around you and the things that you can accomplish. Lead by example and share your wisdom to leave a lasting positive impact.
Make sure to listen to this episode to her Dan and I talk about navigating leadership, parenting, and how to not underestimate what you can accomplish. Then go take a vacation so you are well rested and ready to take on all the demands of your work. Call Magical Vacation Planners at 407-442-2694 to help you. They can accomplish a lot when it comes to planning your ideal trip.