Currently browsing Colleen Barrett

by Shashank Nigam | December 18th, 2009
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A special day in aviation
Two important events took place in aviation today – both of which conjored mixed feelings in me.
1. The British High Court declared illegal the potential X-mas strike by British Airways‘ Unite union. The good news is that this promises hassle-free travel for almost a million BA travelers over the holiday period. The downside is that the union is keen on re-grouping to go on strike early next year.

2. It was the last day at work for Paula Berg, the force behind the successful new media brand strategy of Southwest Airlines for the past decade. She’s leaving to move back with the true love of her life – the mountains. So again, a bitter-sweet news. (Watch Paula’s video interview on SWA’s media strategy here)
What’s the link between Southwest Airlines and British Airways?
“So, what’s the connection”, you may wonder?

Paula had emailed me about her move last week and in her note included 68 reasons why she loved working at Southwest over the last ten year. Can you imagine an employee putting in so much affection and effort while she’s leaving? This only …

 

by Shashank Nigam | July 21st, 2008
1 Comment

 

Knowledge@Wharton recently featured an interview of Colleen Barrett, the outgoing President of Southwest Airlines. Among the many gems of wisdom she shared about running the most profitable airline in the US, something that stood out was the emphasis that the company was created to serve employees first, and then customers. It may seem normal, but is really the backbone of Southwest’s success. If the employees had not gone the distance with the company, it surely wouldn’t have achieved the kind of success it has today. Once again, it re-emphasizes the fact that happy employees make for a great brand.

Enjoy the interview.

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