Culture, Tradition and the All-Star Game

On Tuesday, I watched the 80th (now) annual All-Star game at Busch Stadium in St. Louis. It is a tradition in our house to watch the game, or at least the start. I should say, the men in the family feel its a tradition. We've given Mom a pass after the introductions and national anthem. Most years I'm decked out in my Phillie's jersey cheering on the National League. Perhaps I'll put on an old Tigers jersey next year and give the National League a fighting chance!


Although Tuesday's game was a good one, many are real snoozers. In most cases, Joan (Mom) has the right idea to leave after the introductions. Since 1999 when Ted Williams made a dramatic entrance and tipped his hat to the crowd, the favorite sons from the host city have made an appearance to the delight of the crowd and players. Tuesday was no exception. Ozzie Smith, Bob Gibson (the greatest pitcher I've seen), Lou Brock, Red Schoendienst, and Bruce Sutter were honored. The biggest applause came when Stan "The Man" Musial rode in. The 88 year-old legend played in an incredible 24 All-Star games. Why do these guys get the most applause-because of their contributions to the franchise and their history making performances. Baseball is rich in history and tradition. I believe it's the tradition that keeps me coming back night after night and year after year. I know I'm not alone.


What kind of traditions have you set up in your workplace? Traditions lead to culture. So, to ask the question in a different way, what is your culture? What keeps your employees coming back? What traditions have you created for your team, customers, suppliers? Creating a culture is not an overnight event. It takes years for it to set in. Hopefully, the culture is positive, engaging, fun, challenging and creates a productive workplace. Unfortunately, too many companies have a culture that is negative, siloed, and unproductive. They have hired poorly, not trained properly, let gossip run wild and allowed cliques to form. Which culture would you rather work in?

As a leader, it is up to you to create the culture for your organization. The example you set and what you're willing to tolerate will ultimately determine turnover, effort expended and profitability. As long as you're creating a culture, you might as well make it positive! Follow baseball's lead and create traditions that last generations and create a culture that attracts and keeps employees, customer and suppliers.