I would wager that the Culture
Committee at Southwest is marginally effective in establishing cultural norms,
although presents other benefits as a fresh, welcoming reminder, that Southwest
cares for its employees. The video demonstrated the Culture Committee was
rather adhoc and random, almost an equivalent of an inter-mural sports team
where everyone receives an “A” for effort.
The purpose of the culture committee
at Southwest is to offload the daily requirements that would otherwise be considered
the “daily grind” that the average flight crew would experience. This is meant
twofold, to show that Southwest cares for its employees but more importantly establish
a climate at Southwest (Southwest
Airlines, 2008).
I would see a viable mission for a
culture committee in my workplace as we have a highly intense work schedule and
there are many menially tasks that could be assumed that would otherwise
demonstrate the leadership cares. The biggest issue we presently face is the absence
of leadership impacting the lowest levels. There always seems to be more talk
and actions seemingly fall short. A culture committee of sorts could be the
intermediary for the leadership that connects the vision and guidance of
leaders from the top to the lowest levels.
The biggest thing that I can take
away from this exercise to immediately use in my career is that actions speak
louder than words. The novelty of Southwest’s Culture Committee demonstrates
more than the actions performed by its members. The simple lunch and cleaning
services provided at one destination is merely a drop in the bucket, although
the “action” speaks a lot louder. Further, the “action” delivers a prudent
message that Southwest cares, i.e. “really cares.” My reflected analysis for my
position is to ensure my words are not lip-service but speak to the lowest
lever with a heart-felt sense of responsibility as a leader. This is similar to
active listening, “active leadership.” I plan to continue with a take charge,
lead from the front mentality however to further ensure the message is not
presented to the masses with a broad brush but a needle. Actions speak louder
than words.
Southwest Airlines (2008, May
31). Southwest Airlines "A Day in the Life of Culture Committee" [Video file]. Retrieved
from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7P0T9IbYKU&feature=player_embedded
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