Kindle edition: https://amzn.to/3kZzEln
“The Disney Way” by Bill Capodagli is an insightful and engaging book that explores the leadership and management principles that have made Disney one of the most successful companies in the world. The book is based on the author’s extensive research into the practices and strategies employed by Walt Disney and his team and interviews with current and former Disney executives.
I read this book when I was pastoring Greenhills, and it was our church planting season. One of the major takeaways I had with this book was how Disney trained their cast members to see every human being as special. We can learn much from this book about creating an environment where people love to work, and leaders see every person as unique. Also, this book tackles creativity, teamwork, innovation, and many other things. I seriously considered the past to attend Disney Institute after reading this book recommended by Pastor Joey Bonifacio.
The book is divided into five sections, each focusing on a different aspect of Disney’s approach to leadership and management. The first section explores the history and philosophy of the Disney company, including Walt Disney’s vision and his commitment to quality, innovation, and creativity. The second section delves into the company’s approach to hiring and training employees, emphasizing the importance of selecting individuals who share the company’s values and culture. The third section examines the Disney approach to customer service, which emphasizes creating magical and memorable guest experiences. The fourth section explores the company’s approach to teamwork and collaboration, highlighting the importance of communication, trust, and mutual respect. Finally, the fifth section provides practical tips and tools for implementing the Disney approach in any organization.
One of the strengths of this book is its accessibility. Capodagli writes in a clear, engaging style that makes complex concepts and ideas easy to understand. He uses numerous examples and anecdotes to illustrate his points, drawing from the Disney experience and other successful companies. The book is also well-organized, with each section building on the previous one and culminating in a set of practical action steps that readers can use to apply the principles to their organizations.
Overall, “The Disney Way” is a valuable resource for anyone interested in leadership, management, or customer service. While the book focuses primarily on the Disney company, its principles and strategies apply to various organizations and industries. By exploring the secrets of Disney’s success, Capodagli provides readers with a roadmap for achieving excellence in their endeavors. Highly recommended.