The First 90 Days Back At NASCAR
The First 90 Days
Two years ago, I read a book entitled, “The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter,” by Michael D. Watkins. The book offers advice on how to transition into a new job quickly and effectively. It covers topics such as setting clear goals, building relationships, and understanding the organizational dynamics associated with that new gig. It also provides specific strategies for making an early impact. It was a helpful read for me as I transitioned into my new role at NASCAR.
Over the past 90 days, I have identified opportunities for process and system enhancement that could result in increased revenue and cost savings as well as a more entertaining guest experience. Even though I know the task list is long, there are three specific areas that have bubbled to the top, and in turn, made the biggest recent impact.
- NASCAR Midway (Highlight Video)
- Opening Ceremonies (1 hour before the green flag)
- NASCAR TV (Jumbotron Program)
All three focus areas are a key factor in a guest’s race day journey. The quality of these elements has the potential to be the cherry on the top of an amazing day—or be a non-factor that happens in and around a race. It is important to me that all are seen as the most delicious Sunday treat a race fan has ever experienced.
A challenge that is present amongst all three is the ability to track progress. This is largely because much of the feedback is subjective. People often make decisions in this area based on the way an element makes them feel, However, as John Doerr taught me in “Measure What Matters,” developing a framework of Objectives and Key Results (OKR) is crucial to the success of every program. OKRs are a goal setting system that allows teams and individuals to set measurable objectives and track progress towards achieving them. Throughout the next 90 days, we will be focusing on ensuring that our OKRs are properly identified, communicated, and trackable so the Event Experience team can adjust their strategies when needed.
I believe that the next 90 days will be as important as the first 90 days due in a large part to the quickly disappearing NASCAR off season. These three priorities will remain as my targets in 2023, and with a greater focus placed on measurement, they are sure to pay off in the long term.
I am excited to continue to bring you along on this journey as we celebrate NASCAR’s 75th Anniversary in 2023. I cannot wait to build upon the amazing foundation of family-friendly entertainment that shouldn’t be missed. Let me know how we can get you out to the track and turn you into a superfan.
Cheers,
Michael
