In the fast-paced world of business, where every decision can seem like a balancing act between cost and benefit, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly drives success. For aspiring leaders, one guiding principle stands out with clarity and wisdom: “Take care of the people, the products, and the profits—in that order.” This mantra, famously championed by Bill Marriott of Marriott International, encapsulates a leadership philosophy that is as relevant today as it was decades ago. But why does this order matter, and how can it shape the future of your leadership journey?

1. People First: The Foundation of Success

Imagine a thriving business as a well-tended garden. The people—your employees—are the fertile soil. Without rich, nourished soil, even the best seeds (ideas, products) will struggle to grow. Herb Kelleher, the legendary founder of Southwest Airlines, understood this metaphor well. He believed that when employees are happy and engaged, they naturally deliver exceptional service, which, in turn, delights customers.

Case in Point: Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is a shining example of how prioritizing employees can lead to extraordinary outcomes. By fostering a culture where people feel valued and empowered, Southwest has consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction. Even during economic downturns, the company chose to protect its employees rather than resort to layoffs, creating a loyal workforce ready to go the extra mile. The result? An airline that not only survived but thrived, maintaining profitability while others faltered.

Tip: As a leader, focus on creating a work environment where your people feel respected, supported, and motivated. Listen to their needs, invest in their growth, and empower them to make decisions. The return on this investment will be immeasurable.

2. Product Excellence: The Natural Outcome

When you take care of your people, they take care of your products. A team that feels supported and inspired is more likely to innovate, solve problems creatively, and strive for excellence. This leads to products and services that are not just good but exceptional—products that stand out in the marketplace and become the gold standard in their category.

Case in Point: Apple
Apple is a company that has built its empire on product excellence, but this success is deeply rooted in how it treats its people. Apple’s culture of innovation is fueled by employees who are encouraged to think differently and challenge the status quo. This empowerment has led to some of the most iconic products in history, from the iPhone to the MacBook, each redefining industry standards and consumer expectations.

Tip: Nurture a culture of innovation by giving your team the freedom to experiment and the resources to succeed. Encourage them to take risks and learn from failures. When your people feel trusted and valued, they will create products that not only meet but exceed expectations.

3. Profits: The Inevitable Reward

When you prioritize people and products, profits naturally follow. This isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s a proven strategy that has led to sustained success for companies across industries. Profits are the byproduct of a business that has its priorities in the right order, allowing it to grow and thrive over the long term.

Case in Point: Costco
Costco is a retail giant that has consistently put its employees first, offering higher wages and better benefits than its competitors. This people-first approach has resulted in one of the lowest employee turnover rates in the industry, leading to cost savings and higher productivity. The positive work environment translates into excellent customer service, which keeps customers coming back. The virtuous cycle is clear: Take care of the people, and the profits will follow.

Tip: Don’t chase profits at the expense of your people or the quality of your products. Instead, build a business that prioritizes the well-being of its employees and the excellence of its offerings. The financial rewards will come, and when they do, they will be sustainable and robust.

A Leadership Philosophy for the Future

In today’s business environment, where challenges are complex and competition is fierce, the wisdom of prioritizing people, products, and profits in that order is more important than ever. This approach is not just about ethical leadership; it’s about smart leadership. It’s about building a resilient, innovative, and profitable organization that can weather any storm.

For aspiring leaders, the takeaway is clear: Start with people. Invest in them, support them, and inspire them. The products and profits will follow, creating a legacy of success that is both meaningful and enduring.

Final Thought: As you embark on your leadership journey, remember that the most successful leaders are those who understand that their greatest assets are not the products they sell or the profits they earn, but the people who make it all possible. Take care of your people, and they will take care of everything else.

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This philosophy has guided some of the world’s most successful companies. As you shape your leadership path, let it guide you, too. In the end, true leadership is about creating value—not just for shareholders, but for everyone your business touches. By focusing on people first, you unlock the potential for lasting success.