As you will discover, the title today is really just a way to highlight Hank in his Captain Jake outfit. Hank is not a candy eater but he loves the idea of trick or treating. He also is fond of spiders and in spite of his mother’s aracnaphobia he has no fear. Hank tells me he is brave! This year he has enjoyed the “no noggin” Halloween tale from Curious George. I won’t spoil the cute ending for you-however it is a twist on the classic headless horseman without the horse or covered bridge. There is a spooky old tree and scare crow that does set the tone. Halloween is for kids-Interesting how many of us live vicariously through their joy and excitement. Enjoy the evening.
I attended the Idaho Private 100 event this week. Idaho has grown as has the list of our leading private companies. The keynote speaker, Ron Price, reminded the large audience that over 60% of all jobs are working in private companies and small business. In addition over 85% of new annual job creation is this same segment. Idaho is no exception and it was appropriate recognition for our entrepreneurs in Idaho.
Dan Price, Ron’s son was introduced. Dan started his own company, Gravity Payments in Seattle and has earned national attention for the company’s rapid growth and unique management approach. Eighteen months ago Dan announced that he was moving everyone’s salary to $70,000 per year. In addition, Dan lowered his salary to the same level from over $1 million. Dan had been increasing salary for his workers annually at double digit rates but this phased in jump got national press.
Rush Limbaugh spoke out against this clearly “socialistic” approach and said it could not work.
In the course of the question and answer Dan discussed his unlimited vacation policy, company wellness plans, and hiring and firing policies. Imagine a company where if you need extended vacation you work that out with your team. Dan admitted that often they are experimenting with ideas and finding ways to make them work. The company has continued to thrive in their very competitive industry and no sign so far that the unorthodox but mission directed company is at risk. Dan’s employees gave him a Tesla as an acknowledgement of his commitment to them and the company.
I continue to think that America is great. Ron Price spoke about millennials and the key role they play in the leadership of today and tomorrow. I for one think our future is bright–passionate and committed leaders like Dan Price will continue to transform our business focus and our country. Looking for quotes relating to this newest generation was enlightening. Perspectives- the traditional quote- “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” millenialized is “what doesn’t kill you makes you wish it did.” “Two roads diverged in a wood and I-I took the one less traveled by” and updated ” two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less tweeted about.” And last but not least “life is what happens when you’re busy making plans” becomes “life is what happens to you while you’re looking at your smartphone.” I think it is definitely time for a new view.
Enjoy the week end. Mike