One can always learn from experiences and our annual trip to work in the schools in Antigua is a great example. Here are three things from our current trip:
- Culture is important everywhere and at every level. We stay in the same hotel every year and have gotten to know many of the staff. The staff seem to be happy and there’s good tenure. Yet there’s one restaurant hostess who complains about something every year. Yet she’s still working there when other restaurants are short of staff. Lesson, you’ll never make everybody happy.
- People have expectations of being taken care of. A lady we see every year selling souvenirs on the beach was complaining the government only gives her a very small space, emphasis on gives. No discussion of paying for a better space, having better merchandise, etc. Lesson, don’t depend on others, take charge.
- My wife Jan has setup 12 sewing centers all over Antigua. These aren’t just to learn sewing, they’re building community. The ladies have bonded and it’s social as much as learning and sewing. Lesson, make it a place for more than just work.
Business owners and buyers need to pay attention to things like the above because when there’s a good culture, expectations of work hard (and play hard), and having a community the chances for success increase.
“A good rule to remember for life is that when it comers to plastic surgery and sushi, never be attracted by a bargain.” Graham Norton
