I Love Rewards was honoured to host Chip Conley’s first Canadian speaking engagement at the InCenter – the home of I Love Rewards. Chip Conley is the founder and CEO of Joie de Vivre Hospitality - California’s largest boutique hotel group, and a renowned speaker and author of the leading book, Peak: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo from Maslow.

Chip believes that leaders can drive peak performance and productivity in their organization by applying principles from Maslow’s iconic Hierarchy of Needs. Below we share three key takeaways.

1. People see their experience at work in three ways: a job (the bottom of the pyramid), a career (the middle of the pyramid) or a calling (the top, or “peak” of the pyramid). Successful companies are those who can help their employees become self-actualized and reach the calling level. Southwest Airlines is a great example of a company that understands what motivates its people, and strives to make employees feel they are part of something truly meaningful.

2. In order to help your employees find their calling in your organization and inspire them to find meaning, leaders need to recognize their people for going above and beyond. Chip told a story during his presentation about a bellhop at one of his hotels who worked extra double shifts because the elevator was out of order. His efforts were discussed at one of the company’s leadership meetings and the leader of IT stood up to say that he would personally thank and recognize the bellhop. The personal recognition went a long way in making the bellhop feel valued and helping him find meaning in his work.

3. Culture is the glue of an organization. According to Chip, creating a unique corporate culture is the first step to building a successful business. It is essential to being profitable…period. Here’s why: a great culture creates enthusiastic employees who are willing and able to help the organization develop strong customer loyalty. An organization that maintains strong customer loyalty is the definition of a profitable and sustainable business.

For more information on Chip Conley visit www.chipconley.com.