I found out the answer to that question recently at the North Dallas Chamber of Commerce annual luncheon. So, here they are: the five principles for any group to be a success from wildcatter and savvy businessman Ray Hunt :
#5
Be contrarian with a purpose. Advances in communication now cause herd mentality. That is not desirable. Going in the opposite direction will leave an open field of opportunity!
#4
Agility. It relates to how quickly or how long it takes to do #3
#3
Adaptability to changing circumstances.
#2
Ability to differentiate. This helps the organization stand apart and avoid being average.
And the secret is out!
The #1 principle that determines a successful group is a
good corporate culture, which includes a strong value system and work ethic.
I like that Mr. Hunt mentioned only Southwest Airlines to this power-packed room to explain the most important principle of a successful group. It was hard not to cheer for Southwest, but the room was silent--hanging on Mr. Hunt's every word with almost 500 business leaders doing like my colleagues Beth Harbin and Monica Whalin-- listening intently! Plus cheering was not one of the successful principles.
Beth (left) and Monica were really listening intently...until I asked them to smile for this photo!
While I'd like to contradict Mr. Hunt's bits of wisdom to prove that, somehow, I am contrarian and smart, I think I'll just demonstrate a good work ethic and get back to work!