Leading the Narrative: How Shared Reading Builds Stronger Club Cultures

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

This initiative has significantly enhanced our club’s operations by improving communication and alignment among managers across departments. The Manager’s Book Club provides leaders with a shared framework and common language to address the challenges we face, enabling clearer, more consistent conversations on leadership, problem-solving, and team development.

By pairing shared reading with presentations and discussion, managers are better equipped to apply concepts in pre-shift meetings, one-on-one coaching, and training. This has strengthened confidence in communication, improved collaboration among leaders, and reduced silos between departments. Additionally, This has enabled managers to engage more interactively and thoughtfully with our membership as a more informed and educated leadership group, reinforcing trust, professionalism, and a cohesive club culture.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

The program is implemented yearly by first polling the management team for book suggestions. From those submissions, the General Manager selects two books, and the individual who suggested each title leads an open discussion during a manager meeting. This structure encourages ownership, peer leadership, and meaningful dialogue, while keeping the focus on practical application rather than theory alone. Managers then translate key takeaways into action through coaching conversations, team meetings, and daily operations.

Club members have responded very positively. Many have expressed appreciation for the club's commitment to education and leadership development and shared pride in being part of a club intentionally dedicated to continuous improvement. This transparency around leadership growth reinforces trust and reflects the club’s commitment to excellence, not only in service but in how its people are developed.