Clarence W. on People Development & Finding the “It Factor”
Clarence W. is Area Coach (AC) of Summerwood’s Area 6 in New Jersey. He’s been with us for 25 years and his leadership perspective is invaluable!
Prior to being promoted to AC, Clarence was a member of our Training Department. We sat down to hear more about blending that experience with his current role overseeing eight Taco Bell restaurants.
“We have so many metrics in our company,” he says. “In order to reach those goals, it’s not a quick-term solution. You really have to take your time and learn it.”
But thankfully, that’s made easier when you have the support of a great employer! At Summerwood, we work hard to provide our people with the resources and training necessary to excel. In fact, we have a Director of People Development in place to make sure that happens.
As for Clarence, he admits his biggest lesson as an AC has been in patience, waiting for a goal to be achieved.
Of course, if filling a deep bench is the goal, Clarence is crushing it! Four recently promoted Restaurant General Managers (RGMs) are to his credit. Kudos to Jamiya B., Chidebere O., Fior S. and Naeem S.!
“We’re big on development in our company.”
– Clarence W., Area Coach
Finding the Right People
Given his years of experience in training and management at Summerwood, we asked Clarence more about development and the promotion process.
“There’s always that one diamond in the rough,” he says. “Once you find that diamond … you just take them and hopefully carry them with you.”
Training, of course, he says is key to unlocking the potential in someone. And then, according to Clarence, everything boils down to the “it factor.”
“The ‘it factor’ is really determination to be great,” he says confidently. “It’s the willingness to do whatever it takes.”
Mixing it Up
The culture of any restaurant is dictated by its manager. Clarence believes a diverse mix of experience levels and personalities works best – seasoned managers can mentor newer managers and everyone works together. He says he’s got a good blend of RGMs right now.
“I have a great team … they show up for work, they work hard,” he shares. “They’re very dedicated. Anything I ask … they’re always willing to do it.”
Next Level Goals
Clarence works hard and sets his own professional goals, too. He confesses that it would mean a lot to him to be tapped to lead at the next level as a Region Coach (RC) – to oversee 36 to 43 restaurants, along with 800 team members! “[You] leave your mark with more people … leave a legacy,” he says of RC-level responsibility.
Like any good leader, Clarence has a plan to help achieve his goals. “I’m going to be consistent; I’m going to take care of my team and take care of the customers,” he says.
It sounds like you’re well on your way to legacy status, Clarence!