Taking Pride in Our Work!
2/17/25
Taking Pride in Our Work!
One of my clients recently identified “Pride in our work” as a core value. As their leadership team has been more intentional about modeling it, I’ve started to notice it everywhere—especially in people who do their work with quiet, steady excellence, regardless of the task.
This idea hit home when I decided to buy a new suit. I’ve got two daughters graduating this spring—one from college and one from high school—and those ceremonies, along with a few other events, made me decide the investment was worth it. I wanted to show up looking my best to honor their accomplishments. So, last week, I dragged my wife to the mall to help me find a suit.
That’s where I met Lesley.
When we walked into the store, Lesley was helping a man get fitted for his first suit. He acknowledged me but never lost focus on his customer. We didn’t have long before closing, but I didn’t mind waiting—I was enjoying watching him work. He was patient yet efficient, handled the suit with care, and made sure the man left feeling confident.
When it was my turn, Lesley gave me the same attention. As he marked the suit for alterations, the closing announcement came on, but he never rushed and he double checked everything. His job wasn’t to sell me a suit; it was to help me look my best (and I can use the help!)
A couple days ago I picked up the suit. The store had just opened and there was Lesley again—already busy, helping another customer look sharp. My suit fit perfectly. As I was checking out, I told him how much I appreciated his help and could tell he takes real pride in his work.
Lesley smiled and said, “Man, your suit is my signature. My name is on these suits when they go out the door.”
That’s it! Pride in our work comes from knowing every task, interaction, and finished product is a reflection of who we are. Lesley figured that out nearly 60 years ago when he started in the business. He doesn’t just sell suits; he helps people look and feel their best—and he signs his name to that work with pride.
Last night was the first of several occasions I’ll wear this suit to celebrate my daughters’ milestones. I want to look my best for them—two girls who have melted my heart since the day they were born. And as I stood next to them, I couldn’t help but think: the pride we take in our work isn’t about us; it’s about the people we serve and the moments we help make special for them.
So here’s to Lesley—a man who takes pride in his work—and to all the men and women who see their job as more than just a job. May we all show up and work in a way that makes us proud to sign our name to it every day!