Unconventional strategies that face skepticism often signal breakthrough potential for businesses willing to challenge industry norms
Cole emphasizes the importance of questioning the status quo, especially when met with skepticism about new ideas. According to him, the very questioning of whether something will work is often a sign that it might, precisely because it deviates from the norm.
The very questioning of whether something will work is often a sign that it might, precisely because it deviates from the norm.
Rather than conforming to traditional methods, the Savannah Bananas used criticism as fuel to innovate and distinguish themselves in the competitive sports industry. Cole highlighted how ignoring the critics and taking bold, unconventional steps helped build their unique brand.
At the heart of the Savannah Bananas' strategy is the ethos of relentless testing and experimentation. Cole stresses the importance of constant innovation, pointing out that "quantity leads to quality." Every day presents a new opportunity to test something different and uncover potential improvements.
Quantity leads to quality.
Understanding and prioritizing the fan experience over mere customer satisfaction has been pivotal for the team. This approach not only enhances the game day experience but also strengthens community and support for the team.
Jesse Cole's philosophy centers on innovation, courage, and community, driving the Savannah Bananas to unprecedented success by not just playing baseball, but by creating a memorable and engaging fan experience. His approach serves as a blueprint for businesses in any industry aiming to stand out and truly connect with their audience.
Video TranscriptExpand ↓
You're gonna have a lot of people tell you you can't do something or my boss would never go for this or this wouldn't work in my industry. And I think that's when you you dig in. You say, oh really? Well, if they're questioning that it won't work then maybe that's why it will work because it's not the normal thing of doing. And when people told us that the bananas would never work here, you better believe that galvanized our team. We came here as a college summer baseball team, the lowest level team in the country. No one thought we'd succeed. Actually, no one even knew who we were. It was professional baseball here for ninety years. Some of the best players in the world played here. Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Lou Gehrig. They should have had more success than any team out, but they weren't Because they were playing the same game as everyone else. They were focused on just being a baseball team. Look for the naysayers. Look for the criticism. And embrace it and run with it. Don't play the same traditional professional game that people are used to the safe way. Safe is not courageous. Safe doesn't get you excited. Safe doesn't get you up in the morning. It's those unique, crazy, excitable things that fire us up every day. The brilliant philosopher Will Ferrell once said, Keep throwing darts at the dartboard. You'll eventually hit the bullseye. So many companies, they're not throwing an they're not testing things as much as they should. For us, every single day is a test. Every single day is an experiment because that's when you could find the real gold. Quantity leads to quality. What are you testing today? What are you testing this week? And how are you getting uncomfortable? At this point, we understand the fans first mindset. We understand that it is not just about customers, it is about creating fans. We understand that we have to create fans out of our own people to deliver this great experience. But it's a big idea. It's a big concept. But often, it just starts with one thing. One thing. One quick win that you can do. And I'll tell you one of the biggest game changer moments for me was the quick win of the simple thank you. And I call it the thank you experiment and I started this in twenty sixteen. I said if I could just write one thank you letter a day, it would make an impact. And I started writing to anybody in my life from parents, teachers, to old coaches, everybody that's made an impact on my life. And it was the biggest game changer ever because I learned the power of gratitude. And so today, when you leave this, can you write one simple thank you card? Could you do one simple thank you video to a customer or someone in your life that's made an impact? Once you get used to telling people you care about them and showing it with simple gestures, you are on your way to fans first. Start with that. Start making an impact.
