Inspect What You Expect Leading with Precision, Not Micromanagement

Reflecting on the journey from my early days as a Chef to my current role as General Manager, one lesson stands out: always try the soup. In those early days, before each meal service, tasting the soup was my ritual for quality control, ensuring every dish met the highest standards before it reached our guests. This simple yet profound practice has become a guiding metaphor for my approach to leadership and management.

"Inspect what you expect" is a principle that resonates deeply within our industry. As leaders, it's imperative to strike a balance between being hands-on without slipping into the realm of micromanagement. The goal is to maintain a keen awareness of the experiences we offer while empowering our teams to excel.

Every Detail Matters

In our dining services, "trying the soup" means engaging with the culinary team and understanding the nuances of each menu item. It’s about tasting the food, experiencing the service, and ensuring consistency. By doing so, we not only uphold quality but also demonstrate to our team that we value their hard work and are committed to excellence. It creates a culture of mutual respect and continuous improvement.

When it comes to club events, "trying the soup" involves attending events, interacting with members, and observing the execution firsthand. This presence allows us to gauge the atmosphere, identify any areas for improvement, and celebrate the successes. It’s about being visible and approachable, showing our members and team that we are invested in creating memorable experiences.

In our wellness facilities, it’s about more than just equipment and classes. Engaging with members and trainers, soliciting feedback, and understanding their needs and expectations helps us ensure that our wellness offerings remain relevant and effective, fostering a healthier and happier membership.

For our golf facilities, it means more than just inspecting the greens. It’s about engaging with golfers and understanding their perspectives. It’s about ensuring that every aspect of their experience, from booking a tee time to post-game relaxation, meets our high standards.

Extreme Ownership

"Inspecting what you expect" is not about micromanaging but about taking extreme ownership of every aspect of your club. It’s about being engaged, proactive, and supportive. It shows your team and members that you are committed to maintaining and enhancing the exceptional atmosphere that sets their club apart.

This approach allows us to anticipate potential issues, address them promptly, and continually elevate the member experience. It fosters a culture of excellence, where every team member understands the importance of their role and feels empowered to contribute to our shared success.

Always "try the soup."

Be present, be engaged, and be proactive. By doing so, we demonstrate our commitment to excellence, support our teams, and show our members why their club is truly a notch above the rest.