As you drive onto High Point University (HPU) campus, the extraordinary experience begins. Vibrant gardens, exquisite fountains, stunning sculptures, beautiful architecture… even classical music was playing along the main street. Dr. Nido Qubein, the President of HPU, hosted the National Speakers Association (NSA) for a small business event, and I was fortunate to attend and privileged to present.
A summary in a few words won’t do justice to the hundreds of lessons learned in three days (so you might see additional learnings in future editions). The experience was more than learning ABCs; it is about leading an extraordinary life – the tagline of HPU is ‘Be Extraordinary’.
Three strategies evidenced in every single interaction, product and service I experienced included:
Attitude
Each student walks with purpose, head held high and well dressed. They demonstrate pride in their school environment, and they are excited to share it. Faculty members constantly exceeded expectations. HPU President Dr. Qubein is a living testimony to an extraordinary life. His charisma, commitment and care permeates everything and he is a brilliant business mind and role model for everyone who is fortunate to spend time with him.
Branding
Royal purple and the logo penetrate everything including tables, clothing, signage and catering. I proudly walked through the airport with my new HPU bag and am excited to wear my new jacket running this Fall (if we’ve met you might know I’m fussy about the brands I wear). Every touch point, every possible photographic opportunity has been strategically considered. It’s more than a brand; it’s a belief.
Culture
People care. It shows. Everyone opened doors, smiled, was helpful, and there was a feeling of pride showing us around the school and helping navigate campus. I randomly spoke to students about their experience, asked for directions, help with photos and every student impressed me with their eloquence and attitude.
It caused me to think about my practice and the clients we serve. Are we all investing our time, attention and energy to create extraordinary for those around us? What could you do to make your client or customer or member feel proud of their relationship with you, eager to continue to work with you and advocate you to others?
This little Aussie wished she could go to school at High Point University and highly recommend if you want to send your loved ones to a school that gives lessons for life and how to think (not what to think) – check out High Point University. Thank you Dr. Nido Qubein for the fabulous experience.
