The travel industry should give us all inspiration
As I’ve started traveling again, I find myself noticing new things. I’m so thankful for the inspiration I’ve received from those working in the travel industry. We all have our stories over the last year, but this industry has been affected in a way that’s hard to comprehend.
This past week I was blessed to meet and watch two Delta employees in the Sky Club. The first one was Derek, an older gentleman working with pride and passion as he made his way around the club. Derek’s work ethic and attitude were incredible. He never stopped unless it was to say hello to customers or ask if they needed anything. His demeanor was such an inspiration to see.
The second was Armaud. He was working a packed bar and making everyone feel good, not only with cocktails, but also his personality. As I came back for a refill, I brought back my glass so he wouldn’t have to waste another one. His comment to me was priceless: “Thank you so much, obviously you’ve been here long enough to see we’re slammed.” To which I replied, “Yes sir, I’m so sorry.” He then said something that surprised me: “Don’t be sorry, we’re glad you are all here; it sure beats the alternative.”
Here was a guy in the weeds with a line of customers and who could easily have been distraught or complaining. Instead, he was embracing the challenge – and more importantly, thankful for it.
Both men reminded me of some valuable lessons:
1. Always take pride in yourself and your work
2. Be thankful for the things you have today and take care of those that take care of you.
As I watched those two, I couldn’t help but think about the Repertoire audience this past year and a half. You’ve all been in the weeds chasing down PPE or diagnostic COVID testing and yet you embraced it. Through work ethic and a desire to take care of America’s care givers you were able to thrive. Like Armaud said, being busy and scrambling to keep your head above water sure beats the alternative!
This month’s cover story with Cardinal Health’s President of U.S. sales for medical solutions, Robert Rajalingam, embraces both lessons mentioned above. The story comes from a Road Warriors podcast I recorded with Robert last month in which he discussed the lessons learned throughout his career as well as facing a global pandemic while taking over the helm at Cardinal. I hope you enjoy the read as well as the podcast found on Repertoiremag.com or in the QR code below.
Dedicated to the industry,
R. Scott Adams