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Leadership Lessonsfrom the National Restaurant Association 2013 Show

In May, 2013, business leaders from the restaurant industry gathered in Chicago. Here are sound bites from their presentations and discussions.by denise lee yohnhttp://deniseleeyohn.com

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“You have to be optimistic to be in this business.”

Don Fox, CEO, Firehouse Subs

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“Work for a brand you believe in.”

Mike Hislop, CEO, Corner Bakery

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“Leadership today involves facilitating the problem-solving of others.” Justin Menkes, Author,

Better Under Pressure

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“For a growing brand, culture is the most important consideration.” Don Fox, CEO, Firehouse Subs

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“You have to have values -- plus the integrity to sustain those values.”Arsen Avakian, CEO, Argo Tea

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“A great internal brand will lead to a great external one.”

Jonathan Newman, Co-CEO, Sweet Green

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“Don’t talk marketing when it comes to sustainability; just talk common sense.”Arsen Avakian, CEO, Argo Tea

9“Create experiences

Jonathan Newman, Co-CEO, Sweet Green

where you passion and

your purpose intersect.”

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“Having a great idea that differentiates you doesn’t last long, so it comes down to execution in the everyday experience.”

Kevin Reddy, Chairman & CEO, Noodles & Co.

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“Our mission isn’t complicated but it requires a lot of focus..” Jonathan Kaplan, CEO, The Melt

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“We’re building relationships one customer at a time, one cup at a time.” Arsen Avakian, CEO, Argo Tea

13“To customers, the restaurant is the brand.”Peter Nolan, Chief Brand

Officer, Roti Mediterrean Grill

14“Investors are stakeholders who make your brand – they have to fit as much as your employees.”

Jonathan Newman, Co-CEO, Sweet Green

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“Many believe they don’t have control over their fate. Those that thrive believe they do.”

Justin Menkes, Author, Better Under Pressure

16“If your approach is too rational, you’re never going to break the category.” Arsen Avakian, CEO, Argo

Tea

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“The higher you go,the less it is about you.”

Justin Menkes, Author, Better Under Pressure

18more from denise:steve jobs on brand-buildingwhole foods for thought

denise lee yohnhttp://deniseleeyohn.com@deniseleeyohn