Starbucks' Experiences

I has just finished reading this book. Well, I proudly to announce that I managed to read the whole book in two days for 200++ pages. (well, my biggest achievement is still reading Harry Potter book in two days for around 700+). Basically, the author states that there are give underlying principles that have contributed to the success of Starbucks. They are

• Principle 1: Make it Your Own
• Principle 2 : Everything matters
• Principle 3 : Suprise and Delight
• Principle 4 : Embrace Resistance
• Princicpe 5 : Leave Your Mark

All those explanations can be found at some those management studies on Great companies. However, the author has done a great job through the usage of examples of how Starbucks applies those principles. At least, it won't bore those non-management audieence. It allows me to visualize how Starbucks apply those principles in their life. What strikes me of course the fourth principle. Let's be honest. People dislike criticism. Thus, I re-read that particular chapter, in order to grasp their view on criticism and etc.

In the beginning of chapter, the author has borrowed one unknown author's Quote (my guess that this guy who quotes is not famous enough to be officially quoted)

"Don't mind criticsm. If it is untrue,disregard it; if unfair, keep from irritation;if it is ignorant,smile;if it is justified,it is not criticsm -learn from it."

As well, i would like to take out the excrept from the book (page 144) on how then Starbucks CEO,Orin Smith, admits the mistake

"With the grace of competent leadership,Starbucks did not seek to scapegoat or place blace on the store partner who made the errant decision in an unimaginably stressful situation. Instead, Orin Smith understood something that most great leaders appreciate; when you are wrong, admit it, fix the problem, and stay the course in areas where you are making positive difference."

I hope that the company lives to what the book has stated. I just feel that it is hard for some people to admit their mistakes, esp top management.