Much is made in popular media about the pursuit of money as the goal of working; nevertheless, the people who are happiest in their careers seem to be those who pursue a life of service. Today’s blog celebrates the long career of Gerry Meek, the CEO of the Calgary Public Library, who just announced his retirement. He exemplifies the influential and successful results of focusing on how customers and community deserve to be served.
Service does not mean confining ourselves to a life of servitude. Success is as essential to serving as it is to any business endeavor. Small successes within our own and the volunteer realm throughout our career teach us how to build incrementally towards fulfilling our own potential. Setting personal and organizational goals that stretch our own and the public’s imagination creates great institutions; the spin-offs lead to better public engagement and sometimes sheer delight.
Community underpins all vibrant societies. And communities are strengthened or undermined by the actions of all. People who are regarded as and treated as citizens respond to the goals of organizations with their commitment and enthusiasm. Public institutions are required to serve all citizens, and under Gerry Meek’s leadership, the Calgary Public Library has transformed this mandate into an art form. The caring shown to their more difficult customers expands into a wave of warmth for all their customers. This is why their approval rating is close to 100% year after year, why 2000 people volunteer for the library, and why I learned to regard everyone with a gentler eye.
..."why I learned to regard everyone with a gentler eye." Nice! I am reminded of a quote from (reportedly) Saint Frances de Sales: "Be patient with everyone, but above all, with yourself." A little more patience/gentleness would seem to be in order - and how delightful that an institution made that learning possible.
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