The Culture of New York City versus the Culture of Your Company
Last week, Will and I were walking through New York City after taking the redeye from California to work with one of our clients. It was the end of the day, and we were heading through Union Square trying to find our hotel. Will had a backpack filled with our electronics including laptops, iPads, etc., and we both were trolling suitcases.
As we stood on the corner, looking around, not moving, someone stopped us and said, “Hey do you need to find something?”
“Yes, we’re looking for the W. Do you know where it is?”
The guy gave us directions and went on his way.
Not more than a minute later, while waiting at the light, another guy gestured to me that the back of Will’s backpack was open. Just a gesture and a smile. I gestured and smiled a thank you and closed the back of Will’s backpack.
So, what does that say about the culture of New York City toward strangers? Maybe it was just that place and time in Union Square, on a Thursday afternoon. But, boy, it was a good feeling.
What happens when people walk into your company? What’s the first good feeling they get? Who meets them at the door? Who says hello? How is the reception area set up? What type of culture is reflected? Those first impressions really make a big difference.
As a New Yorker, I wasn’t surprised by being treated that way, but it reaffirmed my belief that New York City has a culture of kindness.
Tags: company culture, culture, new york city
I had a few more NYC cultural experiences….I was in Starbucks and a woman had spilt coffee down the front of her dress. One of the staff brought out a wet towel, provided moral support and empathy and brought her into the Ladies Room where she could blow dry it under the hand dryer. It was lovely to watch.
I was going out the side door and I had my hands full. A guy walking by saw me and opened the door. I thought he was coming into Starbucks–but was just passing by. Another NYC culture moment that warmed my heart :’)