The other weekend my family and I had the pleasure of attending a gradation party for a colleague's son who graduated from college. Heath is going on to get his Masters in Chicago and ultimately wants to be a writer. So while at the party, knowing Heath likes to write, I casually mentioned that it might be fun to have him write a guest post on The United Linen Blog about his thoughts on this pivotal point in his life. Allow me to introduce, Heath Black.
(Robin Black-United Linen Sales Rep and son Heath, wife Rhonda and daughter Courtney)
Albert Camus wrote, "Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow; Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Just walk beside me and be my friend."
Although different from the Machiavellian definition of leadership, I find this philosophy to be a much more attractive alternative of business leadership; One that I have experienced personally for the past twenty-two years.
Since before I was born (and even planned), my dad, Robin Black, has been an employee at Bartlesville, Oklahoma's local linen company, United Linen. As long as I can remember, the company has seemed much more than a company to me. It has been a group of friends, mentors, and moral supporters. I awaited the company's annual Christmas party, as it was more a family reunion than a business luncheon.
On my 10th birthday, my sister was in a life-threatening car wreck. During this tumultuous time for my family, United Linen showed care, gratitude and support for my family. Whether through heart-felt prayers, flowers or trips to the hospital, United Linen was there in support of my family.
Their compassion did not end there. In early January 2009, my dad was diagnosed with cancer. On top of the disease, there were many different worries going through our heads. How can he get time off for his treatments? What if he gets too sick to work? How can we pay for this!?
But my United Linen family brought peace to my family's hearts. Mat continually prayed for and encouraged my family. Scott asked how my dad was doing all the time. Nancy and Joyce stopped by the house and hospital. Every time we needed love, a United Linen employee was around the corner prepared.
It is this leadership that impresses me so much- leading by recognizing that PEOPLE make up a company, not machines.
It does not take a catastrophe, however, to see this kind of leadership. Last week I graduated from college at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. After the ceremony, my family held a party at my house. Friends from school attended; grandparents, cousins, etc. But, included in this motley crew were Mat Saddoris, Scott Townsend (and Family) and Nancy Cranor- all members of my United Linen Family.
I think there is something to say about a company that truly loves its employees. A company that shows respect and care to the human beings that carry out daily operations. A company that sacrifices for those who sacrifice for it. A company that helps cure cancer, car wrecks and coronary surgeries.
This is the kind of company that is doing things correctly. A company that walks beside their employees, leading them through friendship.
I'm proud to be a part of the United Linen Family.
--
Heath W. Black
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