Pin Trading: Learning from the Master, World’s Greatest Form of Flattery is Being Copied

Learning from the master.  Recently, I was taking a lesson to try and improve my golf swing.   I made a comment which is perhaps one of the most common cliches in life, “practice makes perfect.”  The pro responded quickly to say, “GOOD practice makes perfect,” emphasizing the word good.  He added clarification that practicing a good, proper swing makes perfect, while practicing a mistake will only perpetuate the mistake.   It was an excellent response and reminded me that this applies to anything we learn throughout our lives.   It means to learn from the best and practice the proper skills.  Do not practice mistakes.  It seems obvious, but I know we have all been down this road before.

In my career, I have learned from many masters.

At the time when we were developing a new mascot at Ocean Park, I learned from the best in the industry about a “pin” and its immense symbolic value.    They even created a “pin trading” program where various pins were traded amongst staff and guests to generate awareness, interest, and excitement.   It was one of their many marketing successes and to this day continues to generate excellent revenue for the company.  The pin also exposes their brand and drives loyalty for their product.   It was not just a decorative ornament to be worn on a uniform or by a guest, but a sense of pride for those who wear it.   It seemed so relevant, appropriate, and valid.

With the development of Whiskers at Ocean Park and a fresh, new logo, the idea of a pin featuring the new logo was a lightbulb moment.  It gave us a chance to create a way to instill pride in the staff while promoting the new and fresh look of the Park.  This pin has withstood the sands of time and over the years has become a treasured item.   On a recent visit to Hong Kong, I noticed that the pin was worn proudly by staff of the hotel, which is on-site at the park.   The pin tied them to the park, and they shared an affinity.   They were a part of the park.

It is amazing to see the power of this small pin. 

It brought smiles, transformed attitudes, generated energy, and enthusiasm among those wearing it.   Without question, the guests noticed not only the pin but also the sincere service from the staff.

I learned this from the best in the business, a competitor, but the best.  I never had a chance to thank them for this lesson, but then I trust they know my gratitude.   Oscar Wilde said, “Imitation is the best form of flattery…” The best form of flattery is when the competition can learn from you.