It‘s Not About the Coffee by Howard Behar

Last updated: Aug 15, 2023

Summary of It‘s Not About the Coffee by Howard Behar

It's Not About the Coffee by Howard Behar is a book that explores the principles and values that have made Starbucks one of the most successful and beloved companies in the world. Behar, who served as the President of Starbucks North America and later as the company's Chief Executive Officer, shares his insights and experiences in leading the coffee giant.

The book emphasizes the importance of putting people first and building strong relationships. Behar believes that success in business is not about the product or service being offered, but rather about the people who create and deliver it. He highlights the significance of treating employees with respect, trust, and dignity, and fostering a culture of open communication and collaboration.

Behar also emphasizes the importance of values and purpose in driving business success. He shares how Starbucks has always been guided by its core values, such as creating a sense of belonging, acting with courage, and being present. These values have shaped the company's decisions and actions, and have helped it navigate through challenges and maintain its authenticity.

The book also delves into the concept of servant leadership, where leaders prioritize the needs of their team members and work to support their growth and development. Behar believes that leaders should be humble, empathetic, and focused on serving others rather than seeking personal glory. He shares numerous examples of how Starbucks leaders have embodied this approach and created a positive and empowering work environment.

Furthermore, Behar discusses the importance of innovation and adaptability in a rapidly changing business landscape. He encourages leaders to embrace change, take risks, and constantly seek new ways to improve and evolve. He shares how Starbucks has continuously innovated its products, store designs, and customer experiences to stay relevant and meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Throughout the book, Behar shares personal anecdotes and stories from his time at Starbucks, providing practical insights and lessons for leaders in any industry. He emphasizes the power of relationships, values, and purpose in driving business success and creating a positive impact on the world.

In conclusion, It's Not About the Coffee is a comprehensive guide to leadership and business success, based on the experiences and principles of Howard Behar during his tenure at Starbucks. It emphasizes the importance of people, values, purpose, servant leadership, and innovation in creating a thriving and sustainable organization.

1. The Importance of Authentic Leadership

In "It's Not About the Coffee," Howard Behar emphasizes the significance of authentic leadership. He believes that leaders should be true to themselves and their values, as this authenticity inspires trust and loyalty among their team members. Behar argues that leaders who try to be someone they are not will ultimately fail to connect with their employees and hinder the growth of their organization.

Authentic leaders are transparent, vulnerable, and willing to admit their mistakes. They create an environment where people feel safe to express their opinions and ideas. By embracing their true selves, leaders can foster a culture of openness and collaboration, leading to increased employee engagement and overall success.

2. The Power of Putting People First

Behar emphasizes the importance of prioritizing people over profits. He believes that when leaders genuinely care about their employees' well-being and success, it creates a positive work environment and drives business results. Behar argues that by investing in people and their personal growth, leaders can build a strong and loyal team.

Putting people first involves actively listening to employees, understanding their needs, and providing them with the necessary support and resources to thrive. Behar believes that when leaders prioritize their team's development and happiness, it creates a ripple effect, leading to improved customer satisfaction and ultimately, business success.

3. The Role of Purpose in Business

Behar emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose in business. He believes that organizations should have a higher mission beyond just making money. Behar argues that when employees understand and connect with the purpose of their work, it brings meaning and fulfillment to their jobs.

A strong sense of purpose also helps guide decision-making and aligns the entire organization towards a common goal. Behar encourages leaders to communicate and reinforce the purpose consistently, ensuring that everyone in the organization understands and embraces it. By having a clear purpose, businesses can attract like-minded employees and build a strong brand that resonates with customers.

4. The Value of Building Relationships

Behar emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships with employees, customers, and partners. He believes that strong relationships are the foundation of a successful business. Behar argues that leaders should invest time and effort in getting to know their team members on a personal level, understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations.

By building strong relationships, leaders can create a sense of belonging and loyalty among their employees. Behar also emphasizes the importance of building relationships with customers, understanding their needs, and going above and beyond to exceed their expectations. By prioritizing relationships, leaders can create a positive and supportive network that drives business growth.

5. The Need for Continuous Learning

Behar emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. He believes that leaders should never stop seeking knowledge and improving themselves. Behar argues that by staying curious and open-minded, leaders can adapt to changing circumstances and make better decisions.

Continuous learning involves seeking feedback, embracing new ideas, and being willing to challenge one's own beliefs. Behar encourages leaders to create a culture of learning within their organizations, where employees are encouraged to develop new skills and share their knowledge with others. By prioritizing continuous learning, leaders can stay ahead of the competition and drive innovation within their organizations.

6. The Impact of Positive Communication

Behar emphasizes the power of positive communication in building strong relationships and fostering a positive work environment. He believes that leaders should focus on constructive and uplifting communication, rather than criticism and negativity.

Positive communication involves providing feedback in a supportive and encouraging manner, recognizing and appreciating employees' efforts, and celebrating successes. Behar argues that by fostering a culture of positive communication, leaders can create a motivated and engaged team that is committed to achieving shared goals.

7. The Importance of Embracing Change

Behar emphasizes the need for leaders to embrace change and adapt to new circumstances. He believes that organizations that resist change will eventually become stagnant and fail to meet the evolving needs of their customers.

Behar encourages leaders to be open to new ideas, challenge the status quo, and continuously innovate. He argues that by embracing change, leaders can create a culture of agility and resilience, enabling their organizations to thrive in a rapidly changing business landscape.

8. The Power of Servant Leadership

Behar emphasizes the concept of servant leadership, where leaders prioritize the needs of their team members above their own. He believes that leaders should act as servants to their employees, providing them with the necessary support and resources to succeed.

Servant leaders empower their team members, trust their abilities, and create opportunities for growth. Behar argues that by adopting a servant leadership approach, leaders can build a strong and motivated team that is committed to achieving organizational goals.