Master of Disguise – Texas Roadhouse CEO Goes Incognito for External Learning

“It’s important that I not be recognized when scouting. I have Bubba teeth to dive to another level. The goofier you are, the more folks don’t care about telling you stuff.”  Kent Taylor, Texas Roadhouse CEO

Getting closer to your business operations, employees and even competitors doesn’t require a trip to your local pop-up costume store.  Save that for this year’s Halloween shopping.

Kent Taylor, the founder and CEO of Texas Roadhouse provides a funny reminder that business leaders need to avoid the ivory tower syndrome and get out into the market for real learning.

The good news – despite the popularity of a reality tv show – is that it won’t be necessary to go undercover to make it happen.

Adopting an outside:in perspective and seeking first-hand, external learning are key factors for business success.  It’s a mindset approach I strongly believe in, utilize and write about.  So, with an assist from Kent Taylor, let’s review a few posts for top-of-mind awareness and activation.

Here you go, along with more examples including Waste Management, Starwood Hotels and Amazon, to spur actions for you and your team:

• For Growth & Success, Get Out of the Office.  “Let’s face it. If you’re not engaging off-site with everyone and everything that makes your company tick, that’s a problem – and lost opportunity.”

• Ask Your Customer – Part 3 of a Continuing Series.  “Don’t be afraid to ask your customers how you’re doing.   The alternative is that maybe one day you won’t have the same number of customers to ask.”

• 9 Thought-Provoking Leadership & Personal Growth Ideas for 2013.  “Figure Out How To Get Real Feedback & Input (#1) and Gain Inspiration from an Outside:In Perspective (# 7).”

• Attention Marketers: Watch Undercover Boss.  “Understand the front lines of your business. You need to know how your products are made and sold.”

Headline

Texas Roadhouse’s CEO gets his marketplace learning firsthand by disguising his identity and hitting the road.  While donning a costume may be tempting, there are less dramatic methods to implement an ongoing, effective system for marketplace engagement and learning.  Do what works for you.

Harvey Chimoff is a hands-on marketing leader and business-wide collaborator who builds marketing capabilities in B2B/B2C organizations that drive customer success.