10 Ways How Successful Leaders Think: Howard Schultz

Howard Schultz, the founder and former CEO of Starbucks, is widely regarded as one of the most successful leaders in the business world. He took Starbucks from a small coffee shop in Seattle to a global phenomenon, revolutionizing the coffee industry along the way. One of the key reasons for Schultz’s success is his unique way of thinking.

Here are 10 ways how successful leaders like Howard Schultz think:

They have a clear vision: Successful leaders have a clear vision of what they want to achieve. Schultz envisioned Starbucks as not just a place to buy coffee, but as a “third place” between work and home where people could come together and connect.
They take risks: Successful leaders are not afraid to take risks. Schultz took a huge risk when he decided to expand Starbucks from a regional to a national and then a global brand. This risk paid off and led to the incredible growth of the company.
They are passionate: Successful leaders are passionate about what they do. Schultz’s passion for coffee and creating a unique customer experience is evident in every aspect of Starbucks.
They are adaptable: Successful leaders are able to adapt to changing circumstances. Schultz was able to adapt Starbucks to the changing consumer preferences and the rise of digital technology, ensuring the company’s continued success.
They inspire their team: Successful leaders inspire and motivate their team to achieve greatness. Schultz was known for his ability to inspire and empower his employees, creating a strong company culture and a dedicated workforce.
They think long-term: Successful leaders think beyond immediate results and plan for the long-term. Schultz’s long-term vision for Starbucks allowed the company to weather economic downturns and come out stronger in the end.
They are customer-focused: Successful leaders prioritize the needs and wants of their customers. Schultz put the customer at the center of everything Starbucks did, creating a loyal customer base and a strong brand.
They are resilient: Successful leaders are resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks. Schultz faced numerous challenges throughout his career, but he never gave up and always found a way to overcome them.
They are constantly learning: Successful leaders are lifelong learners. Schultz was always looking for ways to improve himself and his company, seeking out new ideas and staying ahead of the curve.
They are authentic: Successful leaders are authentic and true to themselves. Schultz’s authenticity and genuine love for Starbucks and its mission resonated with customers and employees alike.

Howard Schultz’s unique way of thinking and his ability to apply these principles to Starbucks played a significant role in the company’s success. By adopting these ways of thinking, leaders can unlock their own potential and lead their organizations to greater heights.

Embrace Innovation and Change

Innovation and change are essential for the success of any business. Howard Schultz understands this concept and has embraced it throughout his career as a leader. He believes that in order to stay ahead in the market, businesses need to constantly innovate and adapt to the changing needs of their customers.

Schultz encourages his team to think outside the box and come up with new ideas and solutions. He believes that by embracing innovation, businesses can stay ahead of their competitors and continue to grow and thrive.

One way Schultz has embraced innovation is through the introduction of new products and services. Under his leadership, Starbucks has expanded its menu to include a wide range of beverages and food items to cater to different tastes and preferences. This has not only helped Starbucks attract new customers but also retain existing ones.

Another way Schultz has embraced innovation is through the use of technology. He was one of the first to introduce mobile ordering and payment systems in Starbucks stores, allowing customers to conveniently order and pay for their beverages through their smartphones. This not only improved the customer experience but also increased efficiency and speed of service.

Schultz also believes in embracing change. He understands that the business landscape is constantly evolving, and businesses that are resistant to change will be left behind. By embracing change, businesses can adapt to new trends and market conditions, and find new opportunities for growth.

One example of how Schultz embraced change is when he closed down all Starbucks stores for one day to retrain his baristas on the art of making coffee. This decision was made in response to customer feedback and complaints about the quality of the coffee being served. Through this bold move, Schultz demonstrated his commitment to excellence and his willingness to make changes in order to ensure customer satisfaction.

In conclusion, embracing innovation and change is crucial for the success of any business. Howard Schultz is a strong advocate for innovation and has demonstrated this through the introduction of new products and services, the use of technology, and his willingness to embrace change. By embracing innovation and change, businesses can stay ahead of their competitors and continue to grow and succeed in today’s dynamic business environment.

Foster a Culture of Collaboration

Successful leaders understand the importance of fostering a culture of collaboration within their organizations. They recognize that when employees work together and share their knowledge and ideas, they can achieve greater outcomes and drive innovation.

To foster a culture of collaboration, successful leaders:

Lead by example: Successful leaders demonstrate collaborative behaviors themselves, such as actively listening to others, encouraging open communication, and valuing diverse perspectives.
Promote teamwork: They emphasize the importance of teamwork and create opportunities for employees to work together on projects and initiatives.
Establish a shared vision: Successful leaders ensure that everyone in the organization understands and is aligned with the overall goals and objectives. This shared vision helps to guide collaborative efforts.
Encourage open communication: They create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas, and where feedback is encouraged and valued.
Recognize and celebrate collaboration: Successful leaders acknowledge and reward collaborative behaviors and successes, reinforcing the importance of collaboration within the organization.
Provide tools and resources: They equip employees with the necessary tools and resources to collaborate effectively, such as technology platforms for sharing information and collaborating on projects.
Build relationships: Successful leaders encourage employees to build strong relationships with each other, fostering trust and a sense of camaraderie.
Promote diversity and inclusion: They recognize the value of diverse perspectives and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and included.
Encourage learning and development: Successful leaders support ongoing learning and development opportunities for employees, which can enhance collaboration by expanding knowledge and skills.
Embrace failure: They understand that collaboration involves taking risks and that failures are opportunities for growth and learning. Successful leaders create a safe space where employees feel comfortable taking risks and learning from their mistakes.

By fostering a culture of collaboration, successful leaders create an environment where employees feel empowered, valued, and motivated to work together towards shared goals. This collaborative mindset drives innovation, improves decision-making, and ultimately leads to greater success for the organization as a whole.

Prioritize Customer Experience

One of the key principles of Howard Schultz’s leadership is the prioritization of customer experience. Schultz firmly believes that the success of any business is directly linked to the happiness and satisfaction of its customers. By prioritizing customer experience, leaders can create a loyal customer base and differentiate themselves from their competitors.

Here are some ways Schultz suggests prioritizing customer experience:

Listen to customers: Leaders should actively listen to their customers’ feedback and take their suggestions into consideration. This helps in understanding the needs and expectations of customers.
Invest in training: Leaders should invest in training their employees to provide excellent customer service. Well-trained employees can handle customer queries and problems effectively, ensuring a positive experience.
Go above and beyond: Leaders should encourage their employees to go the extra mile in delivering exceptional service. This includes anticipating customer needs and providing personalized experiences.
Create a customer-centric culture: Leaders should foster a culture that puts the customer at the center of everything the organization does. This includes aligning processes, policies, and decision-making with the goal of improving customer experience.
Adapt to changing customer expectations: Successful leaders understand that customer expectations evolve over time. They continuously adapt their strategies and offerings to meet these changing expectations and stay ahead of the competition.
Reward customer loyalty: Leaders should prioritize rewarding and recognizing loyal customers. This can be done through loyalty programs, exclusive offers, and personalized gestures that make customers feel appreciated.

In conclusion, prioritizing customer experience is a fundamental aspect of successful leadership. By focusing on the needs and expectations of customers, leaders can create a competitive advantage and build strong, long-lasting relationships with their customer base.

Have a Clear Vision and Mission

Successful leaders like Howard Schultz understand the importance of having a clear vision and mission for their organization. They know that a strong vision can serve as a guiding light, helping to align and inspire their team.

A clear vision outlines the desired future state of the organization, while a mission defines the purpose and actions that will be taken to achieve that vision. Together, these two elements provide a sense of direction and purpose for the leader and their team.

When leaders have a clear vision and mission, they are able to effectively communicate their goals and expectations to their team. This clarity helps to eliminate confusion and ensures that everyone is working towards a common objective.

Having a clear vision and mission also helps leaders make strategic decisions. When faced with choices or challenges, leaders can reference their vision and mission to determine the best course of action. This ensures that decisions align with the overall goals and purpose of the organization.

Furthermore, a clear vision and mission can attract and retain top talent. People are naturally drawn to organizations that have a strong sense of purpose and a clear vision for the future. This can help leaders build a high-performing team that is motivated and committed.

In summary, having a clear vision and mission is crucial for successful leaders. It provides a sense of direction, helps with decision-making, and attracts top talent. Leaders like Howard Schultz understand the importance of these elements and actively work to develop and communicate them within their organizations.

Lead by Example

One of the key traits of successful leaders, like Howard Schultz, is their ability to lead by example. They understand that actions speak louder than words, and they strive to model the behavior and values they want to see in their team members.

Leading by example involves setting high standards for yourself and consistently demonstrating those standards in your actions. It’s about being transparent, authentic, and accountable.

Here are some ways successful leaders lead by example:

Work ethic: Successful leaders work hard and set a positive example for their team members. They don’t shy away from challenges and are always willing to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty.
Integrity: They act with honesty and integrity, even when no one is watching. They follow through on their promises and are consistent in their words and actions.
Respect: Successful leaders treat others with respect and expect the same in return. They listen actively, value diverse perspectives, and create a culture of inclusivity.
Communication: They communicate clearly and effectively, both in verbal and written forms. They are open to feedback and encourage open and honest communication among team members.
Growth mindset: Successful leaders have a growth mindset and continuously seek opportunities for learning and improvement. They embrace challenges and encourage their team members to do the same.
Emotional intelligence: They have a high level of emotional intelligence and understand the impact of their emotions on others. They manage their own emotions effectively and empathize with the feelings and needs of their team members.
Accountability: Successful leaders hold themselves accountable for their actions and take responsibility for their mistakes. They don’t blame others or make excuses.
Adaptability: They embrace change and demonstrate a willingness to adapt to new circumstances. They inspire their team members to be flexible and open to change.
Innovation: Successful leaders encourage creativity and innovation within their teams. They are open to new ideas and encourage their team members to think outside the box.
Empowerment: They empower their team members by delegating authority and giving them the autonomy to make decisions. They trust their team members’ abilities and provide support when needed.

By leading by example, successful leaders inspire their team members to strive for excellence and create a positive and productive work environment.

Value People and Relationships

Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks, is known for his emphasis on valuing people and building strong relationships. This philosophy has been key to his success as a leader and has helped him transform Starbucks into one of the most successful and respected brands in the world.

Here are 10 ways how Howard Schultz values people and relationships:

Putting employees first: Schultz firmly believes that happy and engaged employees are essential for a company’s success. He has consistently prioritized the well-being and professional development of Starbucks employees.
Listening and empathy: Schultz is an active listener and empathetic leader. He believes in understanding the needs and concerns of his employees and customers, and he actively seeks feedback to improve the Starbucks experience.
Building a diverse and inclusive workforce: Schultz values diversity and inclusivity and has made it a priority to build a workforce that reflects the communities Starbucks serves. He understands that diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making and innovation.
Investing in employee training and development: Schultz recognizes the importance of ongoing training and development for employees to reach their full potential. He has implemented various programs to support the professional growth of Starbucks partners.
Recognizing and rewarding employees: Schultz believes in acknowledging and appreciating the hard work and contributions of Starbucks employees. He has implemented recognition programs to celebrate achievements and motivate the Starbucks team.
Building strong relationships with suppliers: Schultz understands the significance of strong partnerships with suppliers. He has worked closely with coffee growers and suppliers around the world to ensure ethical sourcing and sustainable practices.
Developing a customer-centric culture: Schultz prioritizes building strong relationships with customers. He believes in providing exceptional customer service and creating a welcoming and personalized experience at Starbucks stores.
Being socially responsible: Schultz is committed to making a positive impact on society. He has implemented various social responsibility initiatives, such as supporting education and veterans, to give back to communities.
Engaging with shareholders and investors: Schultz recognizes the importance of building trust and strong relationships with shareholders and investors. He regularly communicates with them and provides transparency about the company’s performance and vision.
Collaborating with other leaders: Schultz believes in the power of collaboration and building relationships with other leaders. He has partnered with various organizations and influential individuals to drive positive change and make a difference.

In conclusion, valuing people and relationships is a core principle of Howard Schultz’s leadership approach. By prioritizing employees, fostering strong relationships, and aligning values with stakeholders, Schultz has been able to create a successful and socially responsible company like Starbucks.

Take Calculated Risks

Successful leaders, like Howard Schultz, understand the importance of taking calculated risks. They recognize that playing it safe all the time may limit growth and innovation. Calculated risks involve assessing the potential benefits and potential downsides before making a decision.

Here are some key points to consider when taking calculated risks:

Evaluate the potential upside: Analyze the possible positive outcomes that can result from taking the risk. Consider how it aligns with your goals and whether it opens up new opportunities.
Assess the potential downside: Evaluate the potential negative consequences and risks associated with taking the risk. Consider the impact it may have on your team, resources, and reputation.
Gather information: Conduct thorough research and gather as much information as possible to make an informed decision. Consider the opinions and expertise of others.
Weigh the pros and cons: Create a list of the advantages and disadvantages of taking the risk. Consider the likelihood of success and the potential impact on your organization and stakeholders.
Take calculated steps: Plan and implement the risk in a controlled and strategic manner. Break down the risk into smaller, manageable steps and monitor progress along the way.
Learn from failures: Understand that not all risks will lead to success, and that’s okay. Learn from failures and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
Encourage innovation: Taking calculated risks fosters a culture of innovation within your organization. Encourage your team to think outside the box and explore new ideas.
Stay adaptable: Be prepared to make necessary adjustments and adaptations along the way. Monitor the outcomes of the risk and be ready to pivot if needed.
Trust your intuition: While data and research are important, trust your instincts and intuition when making decisions. Listen to your gut feelings and take a leap of faith when necessary.
Celebrate successes: Recognize and celebrate the successes that come from taking calculated risks. This helps to reinforce a culture of innovation and encourages further risk-taking.

By taking calculated risks, leaders like Howard Schultz can drive their organizations forward and create new opportunities for growth and success.

Stay Persistent and Resilient

One of the key traits of successful leaders, highlighted by Howard Schultz, is the ability to stay persistent and resilient. In the face of challenges and setbacks, it is crucial for leaders to maintain their determination and keep pushing forward.

Successful leaders understand that obstacles are a part of the journey towards achieving their goals. They do not let setbacks discourage them or deter them from their path. Instead, they use these challenges as stepping stones for growth and improvement.

Achieving success in any field requires overcoming countless hurdles and setbacks. Without persistence and resilience, it is easy to give up when faced with adversity. However, successful leaders view these challenges as opportunities to learn and improve.

One way leaders stay persistent is by setting clear goals and maintaining a focused mindset. They break down their objectives into smaller, achievable tasks and work towards them relentlessly. By staying committed to their goals, they are able to stay on track even when faced with obstacles.

Resilience is another crucial trait that successful leaders possess. They understand that failure is an inevitable part of the journey towards success. Instead of dwelling on their mistakes or setbacks, they learn from them and find new ways to approach challenges.

Leaders who are resilient bounce back quickly from failures and setbacks. They do not let a single defeat define their journey. Instead, they view each setback as a valuable lesson that helps them grow and adapt. This resilience allows them to stay motivated and continue moving forward, even in the face of adversity.

Overall, staying persistent and resilient is essential for success as a leader. It requires a strong mindset and the ability to learn from failures. By staying committed to their goals and bouncing back from setbacks, leaders can overcome any challenge that comes their way and achieve their desired success.

Questions and answers

What are some key qualities of successful leaders?

Some key qualities of successful leaders include strong communication skills, the ability to inspire and motivate others, being able to think strategically and make tough decisions, having a clear vision and the ability to make it a reality, and being adaptable and open to change.

How does Howard Schultz think as a successful leader?

Howard Schultz thinks as a successful leader by prioritizing the experience of his customers and employees, being passionate about his work and the company’s mission, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity, thinking long-term and being willing to take risks, and constantly seeking personal growth and learning.

What role does communication play in successful leadership?

Communication plays a crucial role in successful leadership. It is important for leaders to clearly and effectively communicate their vision, goals, and expectations to their team in order to align everyone’s efforts. Good communication also allows leaders to build strong relationships, inspire and motivate their team members, and resolve conflicts effectively.

How important is it for a leader to have a clear vision?

Having a clear vision is extremely important for a leader. It helps provide direction and purpose to the team, allows for better decision-making and resource allocation, and creates a sense of unity and motivation among team members. A clear vision also helps leaders stay focused and make consistent progress towards their goals.

What can leaders do to foster a culture of innovation and creativity?

Leaders can foster a culture of innovation and creativity by encouraging and rewarding new ideas, creating an environment where it is safe to take risks and fail, providing resources and support for experimentation, promoting collaboration and diverse perspectives, and leading by example through their own innovative thinking and openness to new possibilities.

How can leaders continue to grow and develop as individuals?

Leaders can continue to grow and develop as individuals by seeking out new experiences and challenges, actively seeking feedback and learning from it, seeking mentorship and guidance from other successful leaders, investing in their own personal and professional development through courses, books, and workshops, and being open-minded and willing to adapt and change.