What I learned at a Carrabba’s in Texas

Earlier this month I presented the opening keynote for the Texas Organization of Nurse Executives (TONE) Annual Conference. The group of 200+ nursing leaders were great (welcome to all of you who are reading this). As an added bonus, my book editor and good friend, Juli Baldwin lives in Dallas so she came to see me speak and help me sell books after the talk.

After I was finished, Juli and I headed to the Carrabba’s Italian Restaurant in Dallas for lunch because Juli’s son, Ryan, is a manager there (Ryan is 23 – he’s on the left in the picture). I’d met Juli’s two other son’s, but hadn’t met Ryan so this was a perfect spot to go. Ryan and his team were delightful hosts.

Near the end of the meal, the proprietor of the store, Cameron Morrow (he’s in his late 20’s) came in with his 10-month old daughter to run the weekly manager meeting. He and Juli had never met.

What I saw then was nothing short of amazing when it comes to engagement.

With Ryan standing next to him, Cameron looked Juli in the eye and talked for several minutes about how wonderful Ryan is doing as a manager. He spoke with authority, conviction and most importantly a caring heart. No, I haven’t gone all soft on you – I could just tell that Cameron is very dedicated to recognizing those around him. It was lovely as Cameron took his time with the conversation.

I had just met Cameron that day but I’m guessing that something that makes him satisfied, energized & productive (AKA engaged) is mentoring others and seeing folks grow and develop. He was certainly successful that day. Ryan stood next to Cameron and watched with a big smile on his face. Juli started to cry (she’s a self proclaimed crier – haha). I had goose bumps all over. I can only imagine that Ryan’s level of engagement (which is already high) has increased based on those few minutes of thoughtful conversation.

Today, think of the power of your words. Think about who you could positively influence by sharing your appreciation and honest comments about his or her work. Maybe it’s the person working along side you or someone who reports to you, maybe it’s someone from another department who you depend on to get your work done…the list of possibilities is endless. The gift you give that person is priceless.