I have just read Nick Clegg’s article on the News web site announcing his “John Lewis Economy” plan. Although I can see a lot of negative response to the speech - I have to say, I think he is spot on.
Giving employees some “skin in the game” as Paul Avins (our Founder) would call it, is something we have always done in our own business’s. Weather it is a share in the returns of a particular product or in the Business itself. If someone puts in extra effort to help the Business win... they should share in the victory!
Having recently had a post Christmas spend up at John Lewis - I agree with Mr Clegg that there is a special magic in their Team, or Partners as they call them - and by the way, what a perfect description of the work force that is. But I don’t think it’s only the fact that all the Staff have a stake in the Business that makes the difference, I think John Lewis do a number of things brilliantly which ends up giving their Customers a superior experience.
Years of portraying a strong and consistent Brand Identity now deliver a very clear message to the Market Place. We are High End - We stand for Quality - and We are fair and respectable. You know exactly what to expect when you walk through a door under the green striped logo!
John Lewis invest heavily in training. Their product knowledge is always impressive, even down to the part time workers - not to mention the effort that they put on Customer Service training which I think is evident to all.
They are also known for promoting from within. Grow your own talent - what a great way to harness and keep all that experience that you have spent time and money imparting!
And finally for me.... their Carrot Cake - second to none in my opinion, and the only incentive to visit John Lewis whenever possible!
So for what it’s worth - I agree with Mr Clegg and his “John Lewis Economy” - and not just for Big Business, I think every Business Owner deserves to look and see what lessons and tips they could take from this successful giant.
Sue Avins
