Jonathan Tisch
Tiny by national standards, the 17-city Loews Hotels chain offers elegant properties that aren't of the cookie-cutter mold. In a new book, The Power of We: Succeeding Through Partnerships , chief Jonathan Tisch --who once dressed up in drag as part of a pitch to win approval for a hotel in Miami Beach--disses Donald Trump-style management and preaches collaboration with employees, customers, communities, and others.
Q: You're not a fan of "management by fear."
A: You don't have to slash and burn. You can be successful by creating opportunities for yourself [and] creating opportunities for those around you.
Q: Is this message just for senior executives, or all employees, or even non-business settings?
A: The themes [are] usable no matter what position you have. It's about identifying groups that can allow you to become successful while also assisting them.
Q: What's in it for the rank and file to partner with their companies?
A: An opportunity to move up. Pay.
Q: But won't the bosses just do what they want anyhow?
A: People are always going to be cynical and skeptical. But these ideas work. They create job security. [Employees] know that if the company is successful financially, the odds of them being laid off are less.
Q: You believe an essential part of partnering is businesses contributing to their communities.
A: If you are running a successful business, then you have a responsibility to the people that work for you, and to the community. There is not enough money at the government level.
Q: But aren't businesses supposed to care only about profits?
A: If I've got a successful business, and through my operation, while I'm still focused on the bottom line, I can assist those that are less fortunate, then I am doing well and doing what's appropriate.
Q: What about partnering poorly?
A: Not every deal is perfect. Stuff happens, and you have to split up. You should recognize it and try to end it as fairly as you started it.
Q: What's the most fun you've had on the job?
A: I really enjoy going to other people's hotels and seeing what they're doing.
Q: Are you recognized?
A: Occasionally. They say, "Can we help you, Mr. Tisch?"
Q: Do you get an immediate upgrade to the penthouse suite?
A: Definitely not. They want to make money also. -Christopher H. Schmitt
This story appears in the October 11, 2004 print edition of U.S. News & World Report.
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