The Value of Good People

It is turning out to be a busy week in Fargo. Much of my time is being spent focusing on markets with declining demand, sliding revenues and that are sure to run short on profit for first quarter. The current situation with the economy and the travel industry weighs heavy on the thoughts and actions of the entire regional team.

Our General Managers are working hard to minimize expenses while maximizing sales efforts. They are, in a sense, being pulled from both ends. At the same time, they are expected to provide unprecedented levels of guest satisfaction to ensure every guest is a possible repeat guest. I appreciate the efforts of all those who continue to step up to the plate and give it their all. It is in times like these that we see what we are all made of.

I just spent a little time with our Senior VP of Operations and saw firsthand how he too is having to make difficult decisions in this tough economic environment. He is working day and night to help ensure we all have that right balance that makes the most of our jobs, our hotels and our futures. What I am working to do with 28 hotels right now, he is focused on for over 200 hotels, as well as the support structure of our corporate staff. He celebrates 25 years with Tharaldson tomorrow, and I would hate to think where we would be without him.

All positions across the company carry a value, and the value of each position is greater today than it ever has been. Let’s not forget the value of the position and focus on what it really is. It’s the value of our people. Every person across the company needs to give 110% today in hopes of providing the same kind of results that a 90% effort would have gotten us in 2007.

Never has the value of good people been greater. Thank you to all who continue to give 110%!