Delta CEO on the best and worst business advice he's gotten #advice #business

Key Concepts:

• Active Listening
• Curiosity as a Career Hallmark
• Accessibility of Leadership
• Importance of Understanding Stakeholders (Employees, Customers, Community)

Best Business Advice: The Power of Listening

The most impactful business advice received by the speaker came from their mother, who emphasized the principle of "two ears and one mouth." This adage highlights the importance of listening more than speaking in business. The speaker believes that in professional settings, there's a tendency to be constantly "on send" (transmitting information) without dedicating sufficient time to truly listen and ensure mutual understanding. This practice of active listening fosters stronger relationships and leads to greater learning. The speaker identifies curiosity, fueled by effective listening, as a significant driver of their career success.

Worst Business Advice: The Myth of Inaccessibility

Conversely, the worst advice originated from a former mentor who, upon the speaker's ascension to CEO, advised them to create a "unique identity" and become less accessible to maintain peace and avoid being too public. The mentor suggested that being too accessible would prevent the CEO from ever having a moment of peace. The speaker, however, chose to disregard this advice.

Embracing Accessibility: A Strategy for Connection and Service

The speaker intentionally rejected the notion of inaccessibility. They value being reachable and maintain a single email address (ed.bastian@delta.com) and a single phone number. This deliberate choice to remain accessible allows the speaker to stay continuously connected with the company's employees, customers, and the broader community. This direct connection is crucial for ensuring that the speaker is best positioned to serve everyone effectively. The speaker's perspective is that being in touch with these key stakeholders is paramount to making informed decisions and fulfilling their responsibilities.