I hate Change, but it had to be done…

Looks like I won’t be going back to the future after all! After careful deliberation, I decided to change the title for my final portfolio. Instead, my new title is “Convert the Nonbelievers.” This new theme serves as my mantra of my leadership experience here at SDSU. With over 30,000 students, it was hard to stand out and be leader. The school itself has some of the most amazing and creative people, so it was tough for me to be seen as leader. It also didn’t help that I was the short brown kid. I never felt like people believed in me or my leadership capabilities. And with that, I told myself to “Convert the Nonbelievers!”

This final portfolio will highlight my experiences at San Diego State throughout my 3 years here. Furthermore, it will emphasize my leadership actions such as how I acted and reacted to certain moments.

The portfolio will include 5 main sections: leadership coursework, work experience, industry connection, leading in action, and promising pitfalls. In addition, the portfolio will include sections about me and my leadership journey.

I’ll be talking about all of my experience from HTM 201 and all the way to my capstone classes. This includes my winning moment in HTM 201 as my music video took home the award for “Best Overall.” Now some may say this was a minor victory, but as a newbie on campus and in the program, this was a huge victory. It will also talk about my first “big boy” job with the San Diego Padres. With good times, there are also going to be some rough and difficult moments. Like the time I ran to be elected as an Associated Students (A.S) Officer. As one of the top 5 executive positions on campus, it would have been a learning experience. The results were not in my favor, but the whole campaign process was a learning experience it self. I learned about myself, the people around me, and the school. I was tested in so many different ways, and at times, I wanted to give up. There were moments where I felt kicked to the ground, and I just wanted to stay down. But I tell myself to push through. And after that rough experience, God works his wonders and provided me with a whole new opportunity.

As one door closes, another one opens! After suffering a loss in the school elections, I was introduced to Hilton Worldwide. Thanks to them, I moved forward and never even took a second to look back. Hilton has provided me with endless opportunities including being a property intern and campus ambassador. Next up, I will be completing their Management Development Program at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki!

All these experiences, and the things I learned because of them will all be produced on my portfolio. Take some time to check it out! — http://htmsdsu.wix.com/ctnb491

I can’t believe this is my last blog post. It’s been real; it’s been fun. It’s been real fun.

With that, I say farewell. And remember, always #ThinkJollyLiveJolly

The Beginning of the End

On that note, it’s time to go “Back to the Future!”

I decided to go with this theme because I want to highlight all the things I’ve completed at SDSU. However, I also want to focus on the importance of the future and how my experiences in the past have changed my tomorrow.

This portfolio will pay tribute to all the time I spent here at SDSU. All the blood, sweat, tears, and hard work that was completed will be shared in this portfolio.

To check it out, click here: http://jollymateo.wix.com/bttf

To see the final product of my portfolio, check back to the site listed on Sunday, May 1st!

Stay tuned! #ThinkJollyLiveJolly

Oh how time flies…

Well, that was fast! Seemed like it was just days ago when I first began this blog. Now, the semester is coming to an end and this may be one of the last time I use this digital diary.

It was fun while it lasted, but I’m glad I was able to dive deeper in to the ever-so-complicated idea of leadership. It has always been a pretty important aspect of my life. However, leadership was more than just one person leading a bunch of people. There’s more to the story; there’s more to this equation.

After doing extensive research on the various kind of leadership theories, it is important to understand that all the credit does not fall on just the leader. Yes, leaders (great leaders) can change an organization. They help shape and mold an optimistic environment and promote harmony. However, it is vital to understand that the followers are just as important. One can lead a group of people all they want, but without openminded followers, then the direction they are being lead to is nonexistent.

The leadership theories taught me the significance of followership. Almost all the leaders were followers at one point of their lives. They’ve experienced what it is like to be on the other side, and they’ve shaped their way of leadership based on their own experience. With that said, they know how vital followership was to spectacular leaders. Followership is the ability to take direction well, to get behind the the leader’s ideals, and to be part of team and strive to deliver what is asked for them to do. It is a dynamic relationship between the leader and the follower; both must treat each other with respect so they both can research the desired outcome.

It is simple, “you scratch my back, I scratch yours.”

When it is all said and done, I’ve learned that leadership is a two way street. Leaders are changemakers; but without great followers, then there is nothing really there. It is crucial that both leaders and followers are treated with respect.

#ThinkJollyLiveJolly

Inside the Icon that is Petco Park

Petco Park was born in 2004, which cost over $450 million dollars. Nonetheless, this was a perfect addition to downtown San Diego’s “cool” and “urban” environment. The ballpark was created to resemble it’s city — America’s Finest City. Petco Park was designed to incorporate sea, sky, and the natural beauty that defines San Diego.

It did just that. And that’s why I decided to shift my focus on how Petco Park is able to provide a memorable experience because of their iconic stadium. The ballpark emulates its city. From the blazing sun, to warm beaches, and that overall family feel/environment; Petco Park has been able to truly connect with their fans and customers because they make them feel proud of their city.

This case study has forced me to look the Petco Park experience from the “back of the house,” which meant gathering some information from various department such as Ticket Operations, Petco Park Events, Baseball Operations, and Guest Services.

What I found was that Petco Park was strong in the connect and refresh categories. Below are some brief details regarding the balllpark experience.

The executives at Petco Park wanted a ballpark that mirrored their city and its people. On that note, they made power moves such dedicating special areas that represent San Diego. Therefore, there fans could easily connect with the ballpark.

For example, the Petco Park has added historical elements like East Village which has been an essential part of downtown. It represents downtown’s largest urban neighborhood and became the community hub in the 1990s. Quite possibly the ballpark’s most iconic structure, the Western Metal Supply Company building served as the starting ground during construction. They first build this building before anything else, then once finished, the seating bowl was redesigned around it. The Western Metal Supply Company warehouse was a San Diego landmark as it was instrumental in providing metal goods for Southern California. It was an essential part of San Diego’s industrialization, which is why the building is a prominent on inside the park.

Petco Park also does a great job of providing “refreshers” for their fans. They want to stand out from all other stadiums, and have added some innovative areas that make them different while maintaining its San Diego roots. For example, “Park at the Park” and “The Beach” are wildly popular areas in the ballpark and are great for families. Executives made sure this was a necessity to them as it provided all fans to enjoy their time during a game.

Petco Park has given their employees the power to imagine, inspire, influence, and impact. They wanted to build a ballpark that truly represented the charateristics of their city. Fortunately, the fans got more than what was expected. Petco Park will remain an icon for San Diegans for decades to come as they have been able to provide an experience for their fans to feel proud and honored about their roots.

Thank you all. Stay tuned for more details and an inside look about the Petco Park experience. Until next time friends…#ThinkJollyLiveJolly

The Power of Petco Park

Petco Park is considered as one of the most beautiful stadiums in all of baseball. Hell, this ballpark is considered as one of the most beautifully designed facilities in all of sports. Home to the San Diego Padres, Petco Park opened it door to America’s Finest City in 2004. There are 81 regular season baseball games played there, but is also used as a multipurpose facility where concerts, sporting events, and meeting spaces are held.

I chose Petco Park mainly for two reasons. One is because I currently am employed there. The second is because I’ve always been in awe of its beauty. It has its own personality and charisma, and is situated in a perfect location in middle of the Gaslamp District in Downtown. With a plethora of views, dining options, and non baseball activities, Petco Park is a perfect place of baseball fanatics young and old.

As a consumer, when you first enter the ball park you first notice its modern look. It has 4 main entrances, of which 2 are in prime locations. There are 2 entrances in the Gaslamp area and one in East Village. These gates make the experience even better as it feels like you are entering a totally different world in just few steps. At first, you’re enjoying the busy streets of the Gaslamp Quarter and next thing you know, you’re in the midst of peanuts and crackerjacks. There is no doubt Petco Park is visually stunning, especially now since they have “upped” there game because San Diego is hosting the 2016 MLB All Star Game. Around the ballpark, new additions have been made to give it an extra San Diego flavor. Paintings of several notable Padres are spread all over the walls. Murals of prominent San Diego neighborhoods have also been added all around the ballpark. The Padres logos are EVERYWHERE (and I mean everywhere, more than ever before) including hallways and ramps. Lastly, The All-Star Game logo has been plastered proudly all around Petco Park. The Padres are definitely excited to host the mid-summer classic, and it clearly shows in their stadium.

What I also love about the ballpark as a consumer, and as someone who looks at things from all views, Petco Park has something to offer for all ages. One of my favorite things about the stadium is “Park at the Park.” This is a section in the outfield with a big grass field where people can come in and sit down and watch the game. To me, this is the essence and personality of San Diegans. During game days, people can purchase general admission tickets and sit in this area. Many people choose this options because they can bring lawn chairs and blankets and just sit with their friends and family. Park at the Park is a huge hit to the fans because they can enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather as they watch their beloved Padres. Furthermore, the “Park at the Park” experience is enhanced on Sundays because of “Kids Fest.” This area is turned to an insane playground with bounce houses, teeball games, and other activities where children can have the timer of their lives. As a consumer, I enjoy Petco Park because of its versatility. They have done a tremendous job of providing and sustaining entertainment for those coming in to the stadium.

Check back next week to get an update about my views regarding Petco Park! Until then….. #ThinkJollyLiveJolly

To Serve is To Lead

SERVANT LEADERSHIP – Serve as you lead!

After much consideration, I decided to look in to Servant Leadership.

When I look at myself and my own beliefs and values (especially regarding leadership), I’ve always emphasized the importance of the follower. With this theory, it focuses primarily on your subordinates and how their beliefs and values matter as much as your own.

I am also a firm believer in the idea that before you lead, you must follow. I think this theory is a perfect example of that. You have to listen. Listen to those around you. Listen to the person next to you. Listen to your superiors. Listen to the quiet one. Listen, just listen. Listen first, then lead.Pay close attention to what is going and truly understand the environment. Once this is accomplished, then you have a better chance and gaining your team’s trust. As a result, your leading the team seamlessly and effortlessly.

I am a firm believer than leadership is a two-way street. Both parties are equally valuable. Put your team first, and they’ll see your value. I chose servant leadership theory because it lines up with my own beliefs. And with that said, #ThinkJollyLiveJolly.

Autonomy, Autonomy, Autonomy.

In his keynote, Daniel Pink gives us his insight on driving employee engagement.

What I took most out of his whole presentation was autonomy. As defined by merriam-webster, autonomy refers to the self directing freedom and especially moral independence. There are actually 3 enduring motivators that enhance employee engagement, but Daniel Pink believe autonomy is key.

But to first understand autonomy, we must understand management. As I grow older and prepare myself for the workforce, management has been emphasized more than anything. It is one of the factors that make businesses profitable. Great management leads to better operating systems, enhanced internal environment, and an overall successful company.

However, Daniel Pink believes that we’ve taken this word way too seriously. In fact, I’d have to agree because as of lately, I’ve put way too much thought in to this. But really, its “a technology for organizing people into productive capacities.” Now it does get a little bit more complicated because it does not necessarily help with engagement. If we want our employees to be more engaged, then the answer is self-direction.

What I found intriguing with Daniel’s keynote, was how other companies was engaging their staff. More specifically, Zappos. I’ve known about this company for several years now but had no idea about their customer service department. Zappos is an online shoe company that uses call centers, which is one of the worst jobs in the U.S with a turnover rate of about 100%. Let’s face it, the job is boring. You’re on a tiny desk, wearing an uncomfortable desk, and dealing with rude entitled people.

Zappos decided to change the game. They gave their call centers one main job: solve the customer’s problem. It was to be done their way, without any scripts, micromanaging, or monitoring of any sort. With trust and autonomy, Zappos came away with customer service ratings that emulated the Four Seasons.

Now all this may be easier said than done, but it is doable. To ensure employee engagement, the key is autonomy. Give them trust, independence, and the freedom of external control.

Check it out here! – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8PsRWvJz00

As always, remember to #ThinkJollyLiveJolly

 

HOLY SCHULTZ!

Oh, the power of Starbucks! Check out why Howard Schultz and Starbucks have transformed their business into something more than a coffee chain!

Transactional versus Transformational

Transactional and transformational leadership differ on their own ways, but both are effective nonetheless. Transactional leadership has management approach that focuses on the task, production and structure. It focuses on both the leader and the follower, where motivation is conducted by exchanging rewards for performance. It focuses on the “now,” rather than the “later.” It ensures everything is flowing perfectly smooth at that point in time, and not worrying about issues in the future.

Transformational leadership is reinventing the climate and its people in an effort to reach positive environment. It emphasizes the improvement and sustainment of the harmonious relationships with in an organization. This leadership theory looks beyond the current situation, bringing the team the next level of performance and success. Here, the leader is a visionary. They inspire and motivate their followers to go above and beyond and resolve issues at hand.

I currently work in the Ticket Operations department for the San Diego Padres. During the end of last season, the Director of our department believed changes needed to be made. With the help of our the Box Office Manager and the Ticket Operation Senior Manager, 2 people were terminated.

This was a drastic change and an act of transformational leadership. The department had been going through some rough seasons because the overall climate was disheartening. Our sellers felt unwanted and unappreciated, and many did not enjoy going in to work at the ballpark. Our director wanted to move forward and towards something completely different. He wanted to change the environment. He wanted to change the climate, and by doing so our sellers would deliver the best service to our fans. Our director had a vision, and that vision was to transform the Ticket Operations department into an enjoyable and amusing work environment.

Shout to my favorite Indian…ARCHI!

Now those are some bold words, as I just named Archita Mahatma my favorite Indian in the world! My next door neighbor back home are Indian and they would be really upset if they were reading this. But I don’t care…because Archi just surpassed them beyond all levels.

I love you Archi! Why, you ask? Well as I explore blogs of other students in 491, I came upon Archis. I scroll down, and next thing you know, I see my name in bold letters and wouldn’t you know it, she’s written about myself and my blog.

The whole thing made me smile. I pride myself in making sure I stay genuine and have a positive authentic relationship with the people I meet. Though I’ve only met Archi for a short amount of time (AND I DON’T KNOW WHY WE DIDN’T MEET BEFOREHAND), I’ve grown to appreciate her friendship. She’s a great person to be around, enlightening, and can always put a smile on my face. Let’s just say she’s able to add to my Jolly-ness. Which is a hard task because I am always already pretty Jolly.

Anyway, it put a smile on my face when she reflected on the time when we first met. She went into the office and found me relaxing on the couch. She already wasn’t having the best day but she appreciated that I was able to put a smile on her face and turn her day around.

There are a lot of things I value in life, and making people smile is one of them. Like mentioned from my previous posts, it is my duty to make people smile. I take pride in making sure the people around me are consistently laughing and smiling. So for that, I thank you Archi. Thank you for letting me put a smile on your face. And thank you for being my friend! 🙂

Now with all jokes and cheesy stuff aside, I will leave you with a song. Archi, I hope you read this and listen to the song. This will always be our song. Enjoy it, my friend!

#ThinkArchiLiveArchi — #ThinkJollyLiveJolly