Tom-isms

My first manager at Commerce University, the corporate training facility of Commerce Bank, was Tom DiSabatina. Throughout our footprint from New York to Florida, he was known as Tommy D. Tom gobbled up books like a hungry shark and led our Lunch and Learn program where executives could come and get a CliffsNotes or “Tom’s Notes” of many business books out on the market at the time like Good to Great for example.

Whether it was at one of these Lunch and Learns or during one of the many programs Tom facilitated, he was known to repeat some lines that became known as “Tom-isms.” Tom may not be the original author of these sayings, but I offer them and my take on them to you as things to consider in your career. They have stuck with me and perhaps you will see why.

“How do I become the gold apple in a bushel of red?”

Make yourself known for your excellence, which will help you stand out in the crowd of your colleagues.

“Great idea…but can it be executed?”

Never create ideas without also doing the research to make sure the idea will work. What resources do you need? Who do you need to influence? Who do you need on your team? How will this make your organization better?

“Service is Theater and Theater is LIVE!”

Be aware that your service is like a Broadway show in which your mistake or success will be noticed. Learn your products and services so that you can give your Customers what they need.

“Anyone and anything can be improved!”

It doesn’t matter where we are on the organizational ladder, there is always room to improve yourself and your processes, products, and procedures.

“Excellence makes you strive for more Excellence!”

When you do excellent work you will get noticed. You will be amazed how easy it is to move up to do additional excellent work because people will want to work with you.

“Those who work the land, know the land!”

Learn your environment, market, and your Customers. Learn how your department interacts with other departments. And when you move up, don’t forget that those who are doing the daily work probably know ways to improve your processes and know your Customers' changing needs so don’t forget to ask them for their ideas and input.  

I still email Tom a few times a year to keep him caught up with my personal and professional successes. And Tom always shares what is going on with him and his family. And yes, he shares with me the books that he is reading at the time. So be like Tom (and me) and keep reading and keep learning!