The Power of Chili, Part 2...

By Matt Kosec

The best leaders are constantly aware of emerging patterns and trends.  Paying close attention to the things that people and organizations repeatedly do that works, as well as noting the actions we do over and over again with no positive results, is an application of Robert Greenleaf’s encouragement to be, “sharply awake and reasonably disturbed.”  This awareness can make all the difference in the world.

Earlier this year I wrote about my experiences at the Southwest Airlines Chili Cook-off and my discovery that although the festive event seemed purely party, there was actually a serious undertone and focus.  Since then I have accepted a position with the City of Coppell.  While focusing on all of the hurried details of transitioning to a new organization I paid little attention to the announcement of the annual City of Coppell Halloween Employee Chili Cook-off.  Completely unaware of what was in store I accepted my peer’s invitation to walk to the Cook-off the morning of the event.

The event was held in the parking bays of the central fire station and I recall surprise when I rounded the corner.  With the fire apparatus removed there was plenty room for the approximately one dozen chili tables, each carefully decorated and staffed by individual City departments.  Each Department entered one or two chilis, and while the chilis were all tasty, the highlight was the careful attention paid to theme and presentation at each table.  While it may be unprofessional for municipal staff to wear a costume to work for the day, this event gave plenty of opportunity to get dressed up, laugh with each other, and remember the importance of humility.  The Human Resources table theme was “101 Dalmatians,” and they refused to overlook even the slightest detail – complete with dog catchers, Woof Gang Chili, doggie treats (cookies), and a Cruella Deville.  The Fire Department was frightening, and I must say was my first experience of seeing our well respected Fire Chief wearing makeup, scary pupil changing contact lenses, and a cape (see humility comment, above!).  Most importantly, my Police Department peers’ construction theme was the winner of “Best Group” (see picture below).  Each and every table was clearly a conscious exercise of creativity, team building, and most importantly, fun.

Like my Southwest Airlines experience, there was also seriousness at this event.  First, while employees spent their own time and funds to cook and present their chilis at their tables, entry into the event was not free.  Want to come over and eat as much chili and desserts as you can?  Then place your four dollar donation to United Way right here, please!  Generosity in the workplace is important, but combining it with purpose is brilliant.

Undoubtedly the City of Coppell’s health insurance benefits administrator was displeased with employees eating chili and desserts and then plopping down at their desks.  Enter “Living Well in Coppell,” the City’s optional employee wellness program.  The Living Well folks were careful to present healthy eating options at the center of the event.  More importantly, they sponsored the annual “Chili Walk-off.”  Should you choose, after you enjoy your food, the camaraderie could continue with a nice walk around the Town Center Plaza.  If you made at least three trips around you were rewarded with points towards your annual wellness incentive.  The participation level was impressive and I was proud to see department heads and employees all walking, including the City Manager.

During this hour or so I met many of my new peer City of Coppell employees, albeit some of them in outrageous costumes.  I was able to laugh, compare chilis, and learn how my new organization combines team building, wellness, generosity, and fun all into one event.  Most importantly, it was a reminder of awareness; considering this is the second time it struck me, I should have been prepared to experience the power of a chili cook-off.  I don’t think you will soon see “Chili Cook-off” being added to Covey’s “7 Habits” or the Greenleaf Center publishing the manuscript “How you can grow servant leadership through chili cook-offs.”  But trust me, pay attention to the power of chili!

The Coppell Police Department Chili Team (from left to right): Shannon Govan, Richard Harr, Orelia Herrera-Garza, Mitzie Duke

            Not pictured:  Fay Dunagan, Cori Ann Heban