Was Howard Schultz A Good Leader?

Howard Schultz realized that a company is only as good as the people who work for it. He did not want Starbucks employees to feel like they were just serving coffee. He gave benefits like health insurance and stock options to even part-time workers because he believed that if he took care of his employees, they would offer better service and the company would be more successful. His focus on company culture helped Starbucks grow into a brand that people trusted and respected.

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Howard Schultz Had A Clear Vision That Helped Starbucks Become One Of The Most Recognized Brands In The World

When Schultz initially became associated with Starbucks, he saw an opportunity for more than a coffee shop. He wanted to create an experience that would make the customer feel at home. His vision turned Starbucks into a destination where people would gather, relax, and enjoy quality coffee. He stuck to his vision even when everyone else lost confidence in him, and it allowed Starbucks to become an international brand with thousands of locations.

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Howard Schultz Showed That Good Leadership Requires Making Tough Decisions Even When They Are Not Popular

Throughout his time at Starbucks, Schultz had to make difficult decisions. When the company was in trouble, he made the decision to close underperforming stores and bring the focus back to what made Starbucks special. Not every decision he made was well-liked, but he believed that part of being a good leader was doing what was necessary to be successful in the long run. The ability to make difficult decisions enabled Starbucks to be resilient even in challenging times.

Howard Schultz Believed That Businesses Should Stand For More Than Just Profit And Give Back To The Community

Schultz wasn't just concerned with profits—he believed businesses had a greater purpose. During his tenure, Starbucks became involved in social and environmental initiatives, from fair coffee buying to projects that benefited underprivileged communities. He wasn't afraid to speak out on major social issues either, showing that he believed businesses had a responsibility to give back beyond just pushing products.

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Howard Schultz Created A Customer Experience That Made Starbucks More Than Just A Coffee Shop

Schultz knew that customers weren't just going to Starbucks for the coffee—they were going there for the experience. He made sure that stores were welcoming, had courteous baristas, and a comfort level that would bring customers back. His focus on customer experience set Starbucks apart from other coffee chains and created a loyal customer base of people who saw Starbucks as more than a place to stop and grab a drink.

Howard Schultz Proved That Good Leaders Listen To Their Employees And Make Changes Based On Their Needs

Schultz did not just issue orders to people—he listened to them. He listened to what employees needed and changed their workplaces for the better. He also listened when customers and employees had problems. This ability to listen and adapt made him create a company that people wanted to be associated with, either as customers or employees.

Howard Schultz Made Risky Decisions That Helped Starbucks Grow Into A Well-Known Global Brand

Schultz was a massive risk-taker who took risks most would have been too scared to attempt. In the early days, he believed high-end coffee shops could do well in America despite the fact that Americans had been used to inexpensive coffee. He also pushed growth at an aggressive pace, taking Starbucks to other cities and countries. His risk-taking has positioned Starbucks as one of the world's most recognized brands.

Howard Schultz Led Starbucks With Passion And Showed That Leadership Requires Believing In What You Do

One of the best reasons that Schultz was such an effective leader was that he was passionate about Starbucks. He did not see it as a business only—he actually believed in what he was doing. His excitement and passion were infectious to the individuals that worked for him, and they felt as if they were a part of something special. A leader who is passionate about what they do can make others feel the same, and Schultz showed that passion is one of the most important elements of effective leadership.