The best business lesson learned working at Disneyland.

Every year I could remember my mom would ask what I wanted for my birthday. Every year I answered “I want to go to Disneyland” I was obsessed so as soon as I was old enough, I got a job there. Yes, that kid in the Davy Crockett hat is me. The first thing every new employee has to attend is Disney University. I learned about the history of the company, the expectations, policies and vision. What stood out the most and to this day has served me and the way I do business in my company was this illustration. The instructor referenced a typical family visiting the park on any given day. She told us that this family most likely saved up all year for this one day in the park. The kids had dreamed of this for months, the parents were equally excited and it didn’t matter to them if we were tired, had a fight with our girl or boyfriend, or were feeling sick. They deserved our very best. Then in a stern voice she told us “call in sick if you are not prepared to give this family your very best”. Every customer, every relationship deserves our very best. Leave your personal problems at home and be ready to shine!

-Peter Vaque