Meet a Facilitator: Jeff Soluri

What inspired you to become a Disney Institute facilitator?
It gave me the opportunity to share what Disney has learned with people who are just as passionate about their organizations as we are about Disney.

What is the most rewarding part of being a Disney Institute facilitator?
It’s the knowledge that my company can have such an impact on the operations of other organizations in both the public and private sector. At first, many companies don’t realize that they share our fundamental business philosophies and that Disney Institute can serve as a catalyst for action.

Tell us about a time that you felt Disney Institute really made a difference within an organization.
Not long ago leaders from a large organization that had struggled with merging two companies participated in a multi-day session focused on Leadership Excellence and People Management. As a result, they identified and activated new work processes to successfully activate the merger.

Why do you believe that leadership is so crucial to the success of an organization?
The bottom line is that leadership is a catalyst for success or failure. Leaders define and build the operational environment that attracts great people or not–so–great people, and that environment is the critical component of success.

What words of advice would you give to new leaders?
One of best approaches for new leaders is to ‘play the game by other peoples’ rules’ until they’re in a position to make the rules. Every time they make a rule, they need to remember what it’s like to receive and follow it.

What do you believe are the top dos and don’ts of being a leader?
Do foster ideas and openness.
Do be honest and diplomatic.
Do get to know your team.
Do partner always.
Don’t operate with closed communication.
Don’t work with double-standards.