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Dare to Serve: How to Drive Superior Results by Serving Others
Cheryl Bachelder joined an ailing restaurant chain and turned it into the darling of the industry-by daring to serve the people in her organization well.
When Bachelder was named CEO of Popeyes in the fall of 2007, guest visits had been declining for years, restaurant sales and profit trends were negative, and the company stock price had dropped from $34 in 2002 to $13. The brand was stagnant, and relations between the company and its franchise owners were strained.
By 2014, average restaurant sales were up 25 percent, and profits were up 40 percent. Popeyes' market share had grown from 14 percent to 21 percent, and the stock price was over $40. The franchisees were so pleased with the turnaround that they began reinvesting in the brand, rapidly remodeling restaurants, and building new units around the world.
The difference maker, Bachelder says, was a conscious decision to lead in a new way. She and her team created a workplace where people were treated with respect and dignity yet challenged to perform at the highest level. Silos and self were set aside in favor of collaboration and team play. And the results were measured with rigor and discipline. Servant leadership is sometimes derided as soft or ineffective, but this book shows that it's actually challenging and tough minded-a daring path. Bachelder takes you firsthand through the transformation of Popeyes and shows how a leader at any level can become a Dare-to-Serve leader.
When Bachelder was named CEO of Popeyes in the fall of 2007, guest visits had been declining for years, restaurant sales and profit trends were negative, and the company stock price had dropped from $34 in 2002 to $13. The brand was stagnant, and relations between the company and its franchise owners were strained.
By 2014, average restaurant sales were up 25 percent, and profits were up 40 percent. Popeyes' market share had grown from 14 percent to 21 percent, and the stock price was over $40. The franchisees were so pleased with the turnaround that they began reinvesting in the brand, rapidly remodeling restaurants, and building new units around the world.
The difference maker, Bachelder says, was a conscious decision to lead in a new way. She and her team created a workplace where people were treated with respect and dignity yet challenged to perform at the highest level. Silos and self were set aside in favor of collaboration and team play. And the results were measured with rigor and discipline. Servant leadership is sometimes derided as soft or ineffective, but this book shows that it's actually challenging and tough minded-a daring path. Bachelder takes you firsthand through the transformation of Popeyes and shows how a leader at any level can become a Dare-to-Serve leader.
Audiobook
First published March 16, 2015
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About the author
Cheryl A. Bachelder
3 books9 followersCheryl A. Bachelder formerly served as CEO of Popeyes® Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. Ms. Bachelder led a remarkable turnaround of the company's financial results with a compelling strategic roadmap for growth and an inspiring purpose and set of principles. The results - industry leading performance for the franchise owners and the shareholders.
Ms. Bachelder has more than 35 years of experience in brand building, operations and public-company management at companies like Yum Brands, Domino's Pizza, RJR Nabisco, The Gillette Company and The Procter & Gamble Company.
Ms. Bachelder and her team created a workplace where people were treated with respect and dignity yet challenged to perform at the highest level. Silos and self were set aside in favor of collaboration and team play. And the results were measured with rigor and discipline.
In 2012, Ms. Bachelder was recognized as Leader of the Year by the Women's Foodservice Forum and received the highest industry award, the Silver Plate, for the quick service restaurant sector, presented by the International Food Manufacturer's Association. She was also recognized as a 2012 Nation's Restaurant News' Golden Chain Award recipient.
Ms. Bachelder holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Masters of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. She is married thirty three years to Chris Bachelder and they have three grown daughters.
Ms. Bachelder has more than 35 years of experience in brand building, operations and public-company management at companies like Yum Brands, Domino's Pizza, RJR Nabisco, The Gillette Company and The Procter & Gamble Company.
Ms. Bachelder and her team created a workplace where people were treated with respect and dignity yet challenged to perform at the highest level. Silos and self were set aside in favor of collaboration and team play. And the results were measured with rigor and discipline.
In 2012, Ms. Bachelder was recognized as Leader of the Year by the Women's Foodservice Forum and received the highest industry award, the Silver Plate, for the quick service restaurant sector, presented by the International Food Manufacturer's Association. She was also recognized as a 2012 Nation's Restaurant News' Golden Chain Award recipient.
Ms. Bachelder holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Masters of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. She is married thirty three years to Chris Bachelder and they have three grown daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
February 16, 2019
I’m not in management anymore, nor do I believe I every will be. I am my own business and the only person I have to lead is myself, but I picked up this book because Cheryl Bachelder is the new CEO of my long time, (13 years?) part time gig at Pier 1 Imports.
A few days ago when I worked at P1, I was in the office to watch a video from the new CEO. My first thought was ‘Finally! Not an old white man.’ Second was that she knows what she’s talking about. I then noticed a book on my managers desk (this is unusual because she is not a reader), ‘hey.....a book’. I’m easily distracted by books as I’m sure you, my people, understand. ‘The new CEO wrote a book?’ Okay, I like her.
In the video Cheryl explained that she wasn’t new to Pier 1, she had served on the board of directors since 2012. A good thing, because when I think of Pier 1, I don’t think of Popeye’s or KFC. That’s like apples and, well, fried chicken.
I’m excited and curious about where this is going to go and I hope she does for Peir 1 what she did for popeye’s. We definitely need the help. While the store I work in does well, we have a loyal customer base, our stock prices need a boost!
Her management style is what I consider the proper way to treat the people that work for you. Previous CEOs have slowly but surely taken more and more away from the employees over the years..... Cheryl, will you give us back our holiday bucks? I would really appreciate it....thanks.
The book is well written and her philosophy, to serve those on the front lines, should be common place.
I’m looking forward to working with you Cheryl.
A few days ago when I worked at P1, I was in the office to watch a video from the new CEO. My first thought was ‘Finally! Not an old white man.’ Second was that she knows what she’s talking about. I then noticed a book on my managers desk (this is unusual because she is not a reader), ‘hey.....a book’. I’m easily distracted by books as I’m sure you, my people, understand. ‘The new CEO wrote a book?’ Okay, I like her.
In the video Cheryl explained that she wasn’t new to Pier 1, she had served on the board of directors since 2012. A good thing, because when I think of Pier 1, I don’t think of Popeye’s or KFC. That’s like apples and, well, fried chicken.
I’m excited and curious about where this is going to go and I hope she does for Peir 1 what she did for popeye’s. We definitely need the help. While the store I work in does well, we have a loyal customer base, our stock prices need a boost!
Her management style is what I consider the proper way to treat the people that work for you. Previous CEOs have slowly but surely taken more and more away from the employees over the years..... Cheryl, will you give us back our holiday bucks? I would really appreciate it....thanks.
The book is well written and her philosophy, to serve those on the front lines, should be common place.
I’m looking forward to working with you Cheryl.
July 31, 2023
If this book were a conversation...
Book: "Can you be a LEADER and HUMBLE at the same time?"
Me: "Oh, yeah, that's a pretty common op...."
Book: "THIS IS A RADICAL THOUGHT."
Me: "Actually..."
Book: "THE BEST LEADERS DON'T SEEK THE LIMELIGHT."
Me: "Sure, but that's not..."
Book: "WE DO IT RIGHT AT POPEYES."
Me: "Oh? How?"
Book: "BY SERVING."
Me: "Yes but..."
Book: "WE FIGURED OUT WHO WE SERVED. The franchisees."
Me: "Oh, that's interesting, how did y..."
Book: "PART 2. HAVE A PURPOSE."
Me: "Wait, what about how Popeyes..."
Book: "TREAT EVERYONE WITH DIGNITY. LEADERS CARE."
Me: "Again, that's not ne..."
Book: "BE COUNTER CULTURAL. LIKE ME."
Me: "What about..."
Book: "THE END."
Book: "Can you be a LEADER and HUMBLE at the same time?"
Me: "Oh, yeah, that's a pretty common op...."
Book: "THIS IS A RADICAL THOUGHT."
Me: "Actually..."
Book: "THE BEST LEADERS DON'T SEEK THE LIMELIGHT."
Me: "Sure, but that's not..."
Book: "WE DO IT RIGHT AT POPEYES."
Me: "Oh? How?"
Book: "BY SERVING."
Me: "Yes but..."
Book: "WE FIGURED OUT WHO WE SERVED. The franchisees."
Me: "Oh, that's interesting, how did y..."
Book: "PART 2. HAVE A PURPOSE."
Me: "Wait, what about how Popeyes..."
Book: "TREAT EVERYONE WITH DIGNITY. LEADERS CARE."
Me: "Again, that's not ne..."
Book: "BE COUNTER CULTURAL. LIKE ME."
Me: "What about..."
Book: "THE END."
June 7, 2017
Author: Cheryl Bachelder
Title: Dare to Serve: How to Drive Superior Results by Serving Others
Narrator: Cheryl Bachelder
Publisher: Gildan Media, LLC.
Unabridged
Length of Production: 3 discs/3 hours: 55 minutes
Year of Publication: 2015
No one can question the great experience that Cheryl Bachelder brings to business enterprise. In 2003 Bachelder was fired from KFC to land as the CEO of Popeye’s in 2007 to help resurrect the company. The remarkable turnaround enjoyed by Popeye’s is striking and proves that Bachelder understands business.
Does that mean the CEO should pen a book about leadership? Not always.
Dare to Serve is filled with platitudes that most any competent leader will understand and has learned on the anvil of experience. For example, in explaining the shift of focus at Popeye’s, Bachelder alludes to the fact that her leadership team intentionally decided to adjust the corporate attitude. What was resolved? To think positively about the people lead; and to be a leader who serves others over self-interest. The material seems a little thin and perhaps would serve better as a series of motivational talks within her company.
The book is divided into what Bachelder hails as “Dare to Serve” reflections. While they are not worthless, each seems so basic as not to warrant publication. For example, one such reflection is, “How do you and your team model humility in your daily actions?” Given the plethora of leadership material that exists today – this writer is confident that most leaders understand the place of humility.
The cadence of the audiobook is quite boring and mundane. Ms. Bachelder chose to narrate this audiobook herself and certainly would have fared better to have selected an amicable narrator. This reading moves at about the pace you would expect listening to a kindergarten teacher read to a group of children.
The audiobook is not worthless – it would serve as a good reflection tool for what authors should already know and be doing.
Title: Dare to Serve: How to Drive Superior Results by Serving Others
Narrator: Cheryl Bachelder
Publisher: Gildan Media, LLC.
Unabridged
Length of Production: 3 discs/3 hours: 55 minutes
Year of Publication: 2015
No one can question the great experience that Cheryl Bachelder brings to business enterprise. In 2003 Bachelder was fired from KFC to land as the CEO of Popeye’s in 2007 to help resurrect the company. The remarkable turnaround enjoyed by Popeye’s is striking and proves that Bachelder understands business.
Does that mean the CEO should pen a book about leadership? Not always.
Dare to Serve is filled with platitudes that most any competent leader will understand and has learned on the anvil of experience. For example, in explaining the shift of focus at Popeye’s, Bachelder alludes to the fact that her leadership team intentionally decided to adjust the corporate attitude. What was resolved? To think positively about the people lead; and to be a leader who serves others over self-interest. The material seems a little thin and perhaps would serve better as a series of motivational talks within her company.
The book is divided into what Bachelder hails as “Dare to Serve” reflections. While they are not worthless, each seems so basic as not to warrant publication. For example, one such reflection is, “How do you and your team model humility in your daily actions?” Given the plethora of leadership material that exists today – this writer is confident that most leaders understand the place of humility.
The cadence of the audiobook is quite boring and mundane. Ms. Bachelder chose to narrate this audiobook herself and certainly would have fared better to have selected an amicable narrator. This reading moves at about the pace you would expect listening to a kindergarten teacher read to a group of children.
The audiobook is not worthless – it would serve as a good reflection tool for what authors should already know and be doing.
July 28, 2018
Fantastic book on leadership by one of my favorite leaders, Cheryl Bachelder.
Some take-aways:
Our belief is that serving people well would generate better business results.
Decide to think positively about the people you lead. Decide to be a leader who serves others over self-interest.
"The price of greatness is responsibility." Churchill
Some take-aways:
Our belief is that serving people well would generate better business results.
Decide to think positively about the people you lead. Decide to be a leader who serves others over self-interest.
"The price of greatness is responsibility." Churchill
March 18, 2015
For the past few years I've really focused on my leadership style and through some soul searching, I've been able to define who I am, what I stand for, my values, and how I can help others. Serving others as a leader is like serving my gardens this time of year. Preparing for growth and seeing how I can serve to do so. I have found some powerful books and articles on the "new" leadership style which has really impacted me - Servant Leadership.
"There's nothing fundamentally wrong with our country except that the leaders of all our major organizations are operating on the wrong assumptions" - Robert Townsend
I couldn't agree more with this quote. I just finished an incredible new book that has really impacted my leadership growth. The book is Dare To Serve: How To Drive Superior Results By Serving Others by Cheryl Bachelder the CEO of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Inc. Cheryl enthusiastically shares how serving others as a leader ultimately impacts the bottom line but most importantly, serving influences people. People are the key to a company's success and servant leadership is rewarding for everyone. I've finally been able to define my own leadership style and Cheryl offers some sound advice on how to Dare To Serve.
Dare To Serve is divided into 3 parts. Cheryl explains the Popeye story of rising from the ashes to financial success AND how her people grew as well through the transformation. She shows how to drive superior results. She shares how to become a Dare To Serve leader. Lastly, she offers a strong call to action. Throughout the book she shares 40 Dare To Serve reflections for the reader to think about or share with teams. They are guaranteed to get you thinking!
I really enjoyed Cheryl's journey of clearly defining the issues at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and in particular, the relationships between franchisees and Popeyes employees. She doesn't hold back and is very transparent. Moreover, she is very quick to admit that they still have a lot of work to accomplish as a company and they still experience rocky times. Also? This book is written for you and me - not leaders of major high profile companies. We can make a difference.
Cheryl begins our journey by pointing out that most people (including most leaders) expect leaders to be in the spotlight. Too many leaders work for, live, crave, and love the spotlight. To them it means that they have "made it". Wrong! Servant leaders willingly step out of the spotlight and shift the light from themselves to their people. They focus on their people. They listen. They involve others in decisions and continually empower. They are humble and courageous. They aspire and serve over self interest. They help others pursue dreams. They serve others and bring superior results. So, move that spotlight.
There are clear benefits to becoming a Dare To Serve Leader and you will want to dig in deep within this book to learn. They include "gold" that every leader wants.
• People will tell you the truth and what you need to know.
• Your bold vision is more likely to have followers.
• Teams will perform without being reminded or pushed.
• People perform at a superior level.
• People are more likely to have your back and will even protect you from yourself.
A key to being a true servant leader is bringing the best out of your people. It's fun. It's challenging. You find gifts and skill gaps. You learn and respect different team talents. You grow people and the bottom line. You bring purpose and let people know that they their work has meaning. Getting to know what drives people and motivates them goes a long way towards success. Cheryl shares her "Journey to Personal Purpose". This is a plan to help people determine their purpose because no one can do it for them. The keys to the plan include:
• What are an individuals life experiences?
• Establish your personal values. Live them.
• Strength identification. Grow them and use them to serve.
• Personal purpose for leadership.
• Asking "My purpose can serve the organization for ______"
After we live Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen's 6 year journey from financial and franchise troubles to average restaurant sales increases up 25%, market share increases from 14 to 21 percent, and an impressive improvement of 40% profitability, we get to learn how to become a Dare To Serve leader . This is where the magic really happens because this is your chance to learn what is takes to be a servant leader and how you can make a real difference.
What does it take to become a Dare To Serve Leader? Are you ready?
• Choose to serve. Be a servant leader and avoid these traps - Power, achievement for yourself, too much personal ambition. Know any of these leaders stuck in the trap? Don't be a self centered leader.
• Be bold and brave. Have the courage to serve and be willing to accept failure. I love how Cheryl compares servant leadership to extreme sports. You need to "go big or go home". Stretch yourself and others.
• Have clarity of purpose. You need to find your purpose before you can help others do the same. Sit down and do it today. Examine your life. Choose your key 3 values. Know your gifts and use them. Write your purpose. Test your purpose and ask are you true to it?
• Avoid the spotlight. Remember. Jump out of the spotlight and move it onto others. Do this while following these core beliefs: Practice the golden rule, have personal responsibility, and be humble every day.
• Call to action. As a leader you have influence and are a steward to others. Stand up with a call to action and find a way to spread the Dare To Serve word.
Perhaps your leadership style has become outdated. Maybe you are realizing that you are acting like a leader back in the 1980s or 1990s. New leaders need guidance and role models. We really are all leaders in some form or another and we need to be authentic - not a copy cat. Becoming a servant leader will transform your life and your career.
Dare To Serve: How To Drive Superior Results By Serving Others by Cheryl Bachelder really has influenced my leadership growth. I feel like I have a clearer plan to guide my walk down the path to success. I want to continually personally grow and really positively impact others. I am a servant leader and I Dare To Serve. How about you?
I sincerely encourage you to pick up Cheryl's book today to begin your journey in becoming a servant leader.
"There's nothing fundamentally wrong with our country except that the leaders of all our major organizations are operating on the wrong assumptions" - Robert Townsend
I couldn't agree more with this quote. I just finished an incredible new book that has really impacted my leadership growth. The book is Dare To Serve: How To Drive Superior Results By Serving Others by Cheryl Bachelder the CEO of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Inc. Cheryl enthusiastically shares how serving others as a leader ultimately impacts the bottom line but most importantly, serving influences people. People are the key to a company's success and servant leadership is rewarding for everyone. I've finally been able to define my own leadership style and Cheryl offers some sound advice on how to Dare To Serve.
Dare To Serve is divided into 3 parts. Cheryl explains the Popeye story of rising from the ashes to financial success AND how her people grew as well through the transformation. She shows how to drive superior results. She shares how to become a Dare To Serve leader. Lastly, she offers a strong call to action. Throughout the book she shares 40 Dare To Serve reflections for the reader to think about or share with teams. They are guaranteed to get you thinking!
I really enjoyed Cheryl's journey of clearly defining the issues at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and in particular, the relationships between franchisees and Popeyes employees. She doesn't hold back and is very transparent. Moreover, she is very quick to admit that they still have a lot of work to accomplish as a company and they still experience rocky times. Also? This book is written for you and me - not leaders of major high profile companies. We can make a difference.
Cheryl begins our journey by pointing out that most people (including most leaders) expect leaders to be in the spotlight. Too many leaders work for, live, crave, and love the spotlight. To them it means that they have "made it". Wrong! Servant leaders willingly step out of the spotlight and shift the light from themselves to their people. They focus on their people. They listen. They involve others in decisions and continually empower. They are humble and courageous. They aspire and serve over self interest. They help others pursue dreams. They serve others and bring superior results. So, move that spotlight.
There are clear benefits to becoming a Dare To Serve Leader and you will want to dig in deep within this book to learn. They include "gold" that every leader wants.
• People will tell you the truth and what you need to know.
• Your bold vision is more likely to have followers.
• Teams will perform without being reminded or pushed.
• People perform at a superior level.
• People are more likely to have your back and will even protect you from yourself.
A key to being a true servant leader is bringing the best out of your people. It's fun. It's challenging. You find gifts and skill gaps. You learn and respect different team talents. You grow people and the bottom line. You bring purpose and let people know that they their work has meaning. Getting to know what drives people and motivates them goes a long way towards success. Cheryl shares her "Journey to Personal Purpose". This is a plan to help people determine their purpose because no one can do it for them. The keys to the plan include:
• What are an individuals life experiences?
• Establish your personal values. Live them.
• Strength identification. Grow them and use them to serve.
• Personal purpose for leadership.
• Asking "My purpose can serve the organization for ______"
After we live Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen's 6 year journey from financial and franchise troubles to average restaurant sales increases up 25%, market share increases from 14 to 21 percent, and an impressive improvement of 40% profitability, we get to learn how to become a Dare To Serve leader . This is where the magic really happens because this is your chance to learn what is takes to be a servant leader and how you can make a real difference.
What does it take to become a Dare To Serve Leader? Are you ready?
• Choose to serve. Be a servant leader and avoid these traps - Power, achievement for yourself, too much personal ambition. Know any of these leaders stuck in the trap? Don't be a self centered leader.
• Be bold and brave. Have the courage to serve and be willing to accept failure. I love how Cheryl compares servant leadership to extreme sports. You need to "go big or go home". Stretch yourself and others.
• Have clarity of purpose. You need to find your purpose before you can help others do the same. Sit down and do it today. Examine your life. Choose your key 3 values. Know your gifts and use them. Write your purpose. Test your purpose and ask are you true to it?
• Avoid the spotlight. Remember. Jump out of the spotlight and move it onto others. Do this while following these core beliefs: Practice the golden rule, have personal responsibility, and be humble every day.
• Call to action. As a leader you have influence and are a steward to others. Stand up with a call to action and find a way to spread the Dare To Serve word.
Perhaps your leadership style has become outdated. Maybe you are realizing that you are acting like a leader back in the 1980s or 1990s. New leaders need guidance and role models. We really are all leaders in some form or another and we need to be authentic - not a copy cat. Becoming a servant leader will transform your life and your career.
Dare To Serve: How To Drive Superior Results By Serving Others by Cheryl Bachelder really has influenced my leadership growth. I feel like I have a clearer plan to guide my walk down the path to success. I want to continually personally grow and really positively impact others. I am a servant leader and I Dare To Serve. How about you?
I sincerely encourage you to pick up Cheryl's book today to begin your journey in becoming a servant leader.
March 5, 2021
You should read this if: You're looking for an other-centric, service-oriented perspective on career and leadership with thought-provoking reflection questions.
You should not read this if: You're looking for novel bright thoughts on leadership, not old tried and true ideas.
Review:
My personal work philosophy has been "put others first", which has helped me grow personally and in career in the last few years. Dare to Serve articulates and fleshes out my personal principles, goals, and convictions on work and leadership. Too often, the portrait we see of leadership and management is a me-centric, personally ambitious, win-at-all-costs leadership, which is unappealing but also ineffective. Combining personal experience, research, and wisdom, Bachelder shows us another way - the humble servant yet daring leadership.
Much of the content of this book will be familiar to readers, such as setting personal mission statements and principles, having goals knowing your stakeholders. However, Bachelder distinctly frames these well-known personal techniques into her larger mission and framework of serving others, imparting greater overall meaning and motivation. Bachelder helpfully illustrates her own practices embodied at Popeyes. While there is undoubtedly sugar-coating, I appreciated show Bachelder addresses the elephant in the room of translating corporate-speak BS to truly be internalized and solidified as culture (rather than being a plaque, as she describes).
Bachelder also helpfully challenges the reader with many thoughtful reflection questions. Most of us would profess to wanting to be humble and selfless, but our inner thoughts and attitudes and our external actions would betray our real, hidden motivations. Do I love the people I work with? Am I seeking their benefit? What are the qualities in my favorite bosses that I look to emulate?
As a Christian, I found it uncanny how similar my worldview was to that presented in the book and suspected the author to be religious (Chapter 1 is titled "Whom shall I serve"!), which was proven to be correct towards the end of the book. I'm so glad I found this book - it gives a voice to the leader I hope to be growing into.
You should not read this if: You're looking for novel bright thoughts on leadership, not old tried and true ideas.
Review:
My personal work philosophy has been "put others first", which has helped me grow personally and in career in the last few years. Dare to Serve articulates and fleshes out my personal principles, goals, and convictions on work and leadership. Too often, the portrait we see of leadership and management is a me-centric, personally ambitious, win-at-all-costs leadership, which is unappealing but also ineffective. Combining personal experience, research, and wisdom, Bachelder shows us another way - the humble servant yet daring leadership.
Much of the content of this book will be familiar to readers, such as setting personal mission statements and principles, having goals knowing your stakeholders. However, Bachelder distinctly frames these well-known personal techniques into her larger mission and framework of serving others, imparting greater overall meaning and motivation. Bachelder helpfully illustrates her own practices embodied at Popeyes. While there is undoubtedly sugar-coating, I appreciated show Bachelder addresses the elephant in the room of translating corporate-speak BS to truly be internalized and solidified as culture (rather than being a plaque, as she describes).
Bachelder also helpfully challenges the reader with many thoughtful reflection questions. Most of us would profess to wanting to be humble and selfless, but our inner thoughts and attitudes and our external actions would betray our real, hidden motivations. Do I love the people I work with? Am I seeking their benefit? What are the qualities in my favorite bosses that I look to emulate?
As a Christian, I found it uncanny how similar my worldview was to that presented in the book and suspected the author to be religious (Chapter 1 is titled "Whom shall I serve"!), which was proven to be correct towards the end of the book. I'm so glad I found this book - it gives a voice to the leader I hope to be growing into.
December 30, 2019
It’s got great stories and situations experienced, but not the strongest leadership development.
March 30, 2015
I truly devoured this book. The story of Cheryl's turnaround of Popeyes is inspiring; the results are astounding.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to lead and serve well.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to lead and serve well.
December 13, 2024
For full disclosure, I am not in the traditional business world, but I find it interesting through the lens of human behavior and interpersonal relationships and tend to read a lot about it. The content of this book is wonderful, and I also think the audiobook would make a great drinking game for a business trip. Shots every time she says "Popeyes"! I'm just kidding — please don't do that. This is not professional advice, and you will likely end up in the hospital if you attempt it.
Jokes aside, there are a lot of lessons here for those in leadership, of course, but there are ways to incorporate the themes into our everyday lives and relationships outside of that context. In this book, Cheryl talks about how focusing on others, rather than self, ultimately results in not only better but exceptional business outcomes.
Much of our society is fueled by the fear-based narrative that there is not enough for everyone, and thus, everyone is competition. Whether intending to or not, this book rejects that notion by encouraging a "servant leadership" approach, which is essentially caring about, prioritizing, and working to serve people well at all levels of business — customers, employees, stakeholders, etc. And that the result of making sure that everyone is considered, heard, and cared for ultimately yields superior results.
She goes into much more detail, but that's my overarching takeaway. While this book primarily focuses on business principles, it offers great lessons for applications beyond that, and it's worth the read.
Jokes aside, there are a lot of lessons here for those in leadership, of course, but there are ways to incorporate the themes into our everyday lives and relationships outside of that context. In this book, Cheryl talks about how focusing on others, rather than self, ultimately results in not only better but exceptional business outcomes.
Much of our society is fueled by the fear-based narrative that there is not enough for everyone, and thus, everyone is competition. Whether intending to or not, this book rejects that notion by encouraging a "servant leadership" approach, which is essentially caring about, prioritizing, and working to serve people well at all levels of business — customers, employees, stakeholders, etc. And that the result of making sure that everyone is considered, heard, and cared for ultimately yields superior results.
She goes into much more detail, but that's my overarching takeaway. While this book primarily focuses on business principles, it offers great lessons for applications beyond that, and it's worth the read.
July 3, 2019
This book, by the former CEO of Popeye’s, is about servant leadership, which Cheryl Bachelder refers to as Dare-to-Serve leadership. It’s one of the best books on leadership that I’ve read this year.
The author tells us that if you move yourself out of the spotlight and dare to serve others, you will deliver superior performance results. She describes the “Dare to Serve Leader” as one who possesses a rare combination of traits, courageous enough to take the people to a daring destination yet humble enough to selflessly serve others on the journey. She tells us that the dynamic tension between daring and serving creates the conditions for superior performance.
In the first half of the book she tells the story of the turnaround of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc., a publicly traded global restaurant chain she led. Popeyes restaurants experienced eight years of growth. Average restaurant sales climbed by 45 percent. Market share grew from 14 to 24 percent. The profitability of Popeyes restaurants doubled in terms of real dollars, with restaurant profit margins up from 18 to 23 percent. The Popeyes story provides a real-world example of how one leadership team dared to serve the people well—and produced industry-leading results.
The second half of the book is about how you can become a Dare-to-Serve leader. It offers thoughts and reflections to guide you in becoming the most effective leader you can be. Throughout the book she includes Dare-to-Serve Reflections to help you think about the leadership role you are in today and the best way to influence and steward the people entrusted to your care.
She tells us that the most difficult thing she has to say to leaders is that you will have to take yourself out of the spotlight. Instead, you will find a way to get that spotlight to shine on others.
Here is a summary of the framework she used to lead a successful transformation at Popeyes.
• Listen first
• Articulate a purpose: “Why”
• Choose road map strategies: “What”
• Determine principles: “How”
• Select and develop leaders “Who”
• Communicate consistently and frequently
• Track results monthly, quarterly, annually
The author shares benefits to you of becoming a Dare-to-Serve leader as well as certain mind-sets that will trip you up on a regular basis if you and your team commit to becoming Dare-to-Serve leaders. The book includes helpful Dare-to-Serve Reflection Questions.
I highlighted a number of passages as I read this excellent book, which I recommend all leaders read. Below are 20 of the best quotes that I want to share with you:
1. When you choose to humbly serve others and courageously lead them to daring destinations, the team will give you their very best performance. And the spotlight will be found shining on the remarkable results of the organization as a whole.
2. Here’s a tough question. Do you love the people you’ve decided to serve? It helps.
3. If you choose to be a Dare-to-Serve leader, you’ll have one very big obstacle to overcome. Yourself. It is easy to say that you want to serve others well, but it is much harder to do so in daily life.
4. The Dare-to-Serve leader must have the courage to focus on and solve the hard things facing the organization.
5. What can a leader do to drive engagement? Help people find purpose and meaning at work. Inspire them to contribute their very best work. Care about them, so that they want to care about the enterprise.
6. Servant leadership simply means service above self.
7. Superior results are the measure of how well we serve. Serving and performing go hand in hand.
8. Dare-to-Serve leaders help their followers discover their personal purpose. This builds intentionality and engagement and leads to positive outcomes, including superior results.
9. The Dare-to-Serve leader understands the critical importance of personal accountability in reaching superior performance.
10. Humble leaders inspire, but self-centered leaders squash the spirit of the people. Dare-to-Serve leaders aspire to be more humble.
11. The leader must have both—the courage to take the people to a daring destination and the humility to selflessly serve others on the journey. This dynamic tension between daring and serving creates the conditions for superior performance.
12. The Dare-to-Serve leader has a unique combination of traits—enough courage to take the team to a daring destination and enough humility to serve the people well on the journey. Together, these traits foster the environment for superior performance.
13. Dare-to-Serve leadership is transformative for the leader and the followers. In taking a risk, the leader and the people stretch and grow, and when they are successful, they experience new confidence and new commitment to the team.
14. Dare-to-Serve leaders see each individual as a unique and valuable human being, worthy of dignity. And they treat them accordingly.
15. The point of purpose is to determine how you will serve others. If you don’t plan to serve, you don’t need a purpose. If you do choose to serve, a personal purpose will determine the focus of your leadership.
16. To serve others at work, we need to put more thought into the values that govern our day.
17. To know why you work, you must discover your unique strengths and then spend the rest of your working days offering those strengths to your employer. That is what you are designed to do.
18. A leader without a personal purpose is leading the people on a pointless, meaningless journey. And that’s exactly the environment your leadership creates. A meaningless journey.
19. My observation is that Dare-to-Serve leaders consciously decide to act on these three core beliefs: human dignity, personal responsibility, and humility. They become so convinced about these beliefs that when they are violated, the leader becomes distressed and quickly adjusts his or her behavior.
20. Your leadership actions will change lives for the better, leave them unchanged, or, regrettably, leave them worse off.
The author tells us that if you move yourself out of the spotlight and dare to serve others, you will deliver superior performance results. She describes the “Dare to Serve Leader” as one who possesses a rare combination of traits, courageous enough to take the people to a daring destination yet humble enough to selflessly serve others on the journey. She tells us that the dynamic tension between daring and serving creates the conditions for superior performance.
In the first half of the book she tells the story of the turnaround of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc., a publicly traded global restaurant chain she led. Popeyes restaurants experienced eight years of growth. Average restaurant sales climbed by 45 percent. Market share grew from 14 to 24 percent. The profitability of Popeyes restaurants doubled in terms of real dollars, with restaurant profit margins up from 18 to 23 percent. The Popeyes story provides a real-world example of how one leadership team dared to serve the people well—and produced industry-leading results.
The second half of the book is about how you can become a Dare-to-Serve leader. It offers thoughts and reflections to guide you in becoming the most effective leader you can be. Throughout the book she includes Dare-to-Serve Reflections to help you think about the leadership role you are in today and the best way to influence and steward the people entrusted to your care.
She tells us that the most difficult thing she has to say to leaders is that you will have to take yourself out of the spotlight. Instead, you will find a way to get that spotlight to shine on others.
Here is a summary of the framework she used to lead a successful transformation at Popeyes.
• Listen first
• Articulate a purpose: “Why”
• Choose road map strategies: “What”
• Determine principles: “How”
• Select and develop leaders “Who”
• Communicate consistently and frequently
• Track results monthly, quarterly, annually
The author shares benefits to you of becoming a Dare-to-Serve leader as well as certain mind-sets that will trip you up on a regular basis if you and your team commit to becoming Dare-to-Serve leaders. The book includes helpful Dare-to-Serve Reflection Questions.
I highlighted a number of passages as I read this excellent book, which I recommend all leaders read. Below are 20 of the best quotes that I want to share with you:
1. When you choose to humbly serve others and courageously lead them to daring destinations, the team will give you their very best performance. And the spotlight will be found shining on the remarkable results of the organization as a whole.
2. Here’s a tough question. Do you love the people you’ve decided to serve? It helps.
3. If you choose to be a Dare-to-Serve leader, you’ll have one very big obstacle to overcome. Yourself. It is easy to say that you want to serve others well, but it is much harder to do so in daily life.
4. The Dare-to-Serve leader must have the courage to focus on and solve the hard things facing the organization.
5. What can a leader do to drive engagement? Help people find purpose and meaning at work. Inspire them to contribute their very best work. Care about them, so that they want to care about the enterprise.
6. Servant leadership simply means service above self.
7. Superior results are the measure of how well we serve. Serving and performing go hand in hand.
8. Dare-to-Serve leaders help their followers discover their personal purpose. This builds intentionality and engagement and leads to positive outcomes, including superior results.
9. The Dare-to-Serve leader understands the critical importance of personal accountability in reaching superior performance.
10. Humble leaders inspire, but self-centered leaders squash the spirit of the people. Dare-to-Serve leaders aspire to be more humble.
11. The leader must have both—the courage to take the people to a daring destination and the humility to selflessly serve others on the journey. This dynamic tension between daring and serving creates the conditions for superior performance.
12. The Dare-to-Serve leader has a unique combination of traits—enough courage to take the team to a daring destination and enough humility to serve the people well on the journey. Together, these traits foster the environment for superior performance.
13. Dare-to-Serve leadership is transformative for the leader and the followers. In taking a risk, the leader and the people stretch and grow, and when they are successful, they experience new confidence and new commitment to the team.
14. Dare-to-Serve leaders see each individual as a unique and valuable human being, worthy of dignity. And they treat them accordingly.
15. The point of purpose is to determine how you will serve others. If you don’t plan to serve, you don’t need a purpose. If you do choose to serve, a personal purpose will determine the focus of your leadership.
16. To serve others at work, we need to put more thought into the values that govern our day.
17. To know why you work, you must discover your unique strengths and then spend the rest of your working days offering those strengths to your employer. That is what you are designed to do.
18. A leader without a personal purpose is leading the people on a pointless, meaningless journey. And that’s exactly the environment your leadership creates. A meaningless journey.
19. My observation is that Dare-to-Serve leaders consciously decide to act on these three core beliefs: human dignity, personal responsibility, and humility. They become so convinced about these beliefs that when they are violated, the leader becomes distressed and quickly adjusts his or her behavior.
20. Your leadership actions will change lives for the better, leave them unchanged, or, regrettably, leave them worse off.
May 19, 2020
The message of the book is good: Focus on creating value, look for opportunities to serve, figure out what each team members motivation and purpose is for putting in the effort.
The book is understandably focused on Cheryls run as CEO of a major fast food chain and the transformation she lead. Great results. Great story. And that's probably the let down. The content is anecdotal and the constant framing of the fast food business makes it hard to transfer to other industries and situations.
Although the structure of the book could benefit from some rearranging, my main gripe is the framing of the book. It would have worked better as a book about Popeyes' transformation specifically - a style seen with other big brands that successfully went on a transformation journey. If that was the framing, I probably wouldn't have picked up the book, which is the point.
The book is understandably focused on Cheryls run as CEO of a major fast food chain and the transformation she lead. Great results. Great story. And that's probably the let down. The content is anecdotal and the constant framing of the fast food business makes it hard to transfer to other industries and situations.
Although the structure of the book could benefit from some rearranging, my main gripe is the framing of the book. It would have worked better as a book about Popeyes' transformation specifically - a style seen with other big brands that successfully went on a transformation journey. If that was the framing, I probably wouldn't have picked up the book, which is the point.
October 20, 2024
Excellent Story of Servant Leadership
The book tells the story of Cheryl Bachelder – the CEO of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. Bachelder was hired by the fried chicken restaurant chain in 2007. At the time, the company was in a rapid nosedive. The company’s stock plummeted from 34 in 2002 to 13 in 2007. Bachelder came in and assessed the struggling company. She convinced her leadership team to lead differently. Instead of focusing on profits, they would focus on people. Bachelder told the staff, “If you move yourself out of the spotlight and dare to serve others, you will deliver superior performance results.” Consequently, by 2015, profits were up by 40%, market share was exploding, and the stock price had reached an unprecedented high. I recommend this book to all who want to read an excellent story of servant leadership.
The book tells the story of Cheryl Bachelder – the CEO of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. Bachelder was hired by the fried chicken restaurant chain in 2007. At the time, the company was in a rapid nosedive. The company’s stock plummeted from 34 in 2002 to 13 in 2007. Bachelder came in and assessed the struggling company. She convinced her leadership team to lead differently. Instead of focusing on profits, they would focus on people. Bachelder told the staff, “If you move yourself out of the spotlight and dare to serve others, you will deliver superior performance results.” Consequently, by 2015, profits were up by 40%, market share was exploding, and the stock price had reached an unprecedented high. I recommend this book to all who want to read an excellent story of servant leadership.
October 2, 2018
If you are new to the idea of servant leadership, this is a good place to start. While there are far more weighty tomes on the subject, that might be more specifically applicable to your area of practice, this makes for a decent overall primer. I enjoyed Bachelder's examples, though too many were from her experience alone. I would have preferred to have some experiences related from other leaders who share her point of view. Additionally, and related, the book focuses a little too much on Popeye's. In understand that this is the perspective that she writes from at the time, but it does become wearisome. Again, a more diverse range of examples would expand the message and make it more broadly applicable.
January 31, 2018
Practical, applicable truths.
I first heard this author on the Andy Stanley Leadership Podcast. Her leadership style is practical and down to earth, yet rare. These are timeless truths, but the author shows us they are not "old-fashioned." Indeed, these principles can revolutionize modern enterprise.
It would be difficult to read this book and not want to work for the author! It's an inspiring read that will challenge you to lead more boldly than you ever have, for the benefit of so many others!
I first heard this author on the Andy Stanley Leadership Podcast. Her leadership style is practical and down to earth, yet rare. These are timeless truths, but the author shows us they are not "old-fashioned." Indeed, these principles can revolutionize modern enterprise.
It would be difficult to read this book and not want to work for the author! It's an inspiring read that will challenge you to lead more boldly than you ever have, for the benefit of so many others!
August 26, 2019
Mediocre take on the idea of serving to lead. Seems to me like the author read a bunch of books on leadership, found their favorite parts of those books, and compiled them into their own book. Many examples and stories in this book focused more on the authors accomplishments while leading business then they did with actually focusing on aspects of leadership. If you have never read a book on leadership then this is a good place to start, it is an easy read, with some great points and ideas included, but for myself personally I did not learn anything new in this book.
April 11, 2022
Good read, combined multiple perspectives and encourages leaders to put their people before themselves.
I would equate to helping get your team some consistent wins.
This book will lever up the amount of output their team can generate when the leader truly shifts from performing g work into helping others perform the work.
Similar co rent with Sinek, start with why, level 5 leadership concepts, and using a reformed authoritative leader to challenge the reader to do as I say, not necessarily as I have done.
I would equate to helping get your team some consistent wins.
This book will lever up the amount of output their team can generate when the leader truly shifts from performing g work into helping others perform the work.
Similar co rent with Sinek, start with why, level 5 leadership concepts, and using a reformed authoritative leader to challenge the reader to do as I say, not necessarily as I have done.
October 22, 2023
This book is a MUST-READ for everyone working in the service industry.
Are you a Customer Service Leader looking for superior performance results?
Here's the action plan author Cheryl Bachelder suggests in the book:
1. Establish a daring destination (bold goals) for your team and organization
2. Focus on the vital few things that must be addressed
3. Provide the resources needed to reach the destination
4. Create a work environment that brings out the best in people
5. Measure and report progress
6. Be consistent
My favourite quote: "If you ask the people what constrains their performance, it is usually not skills, it is the work environment established by the leader. The work environment inspires boldness, innovation, and excellence, or it can strangle the capability and productivity of the people and the team. This is the work of the leader: to create a work environment that yields superior results. "
Additionally, one of the most compelling aspects of the book is its emphasis on finding purpose in one's work. Cheryl Bachelder underscores the importance of aligning personal and organizational values, and how this alignment can be a driving force behind superior performance. The book explores how leaders can inspire their teams to find meaning and purpose in what they do, ultimately contributing to a sense of fulfillment and a deeper commitment to the organization's mission. This focus on purpose is a powerful motivator that goes beyond the standard leadership strategies, making it a must-read for those looking to create not just high-performing teams, but also deeply engaged and satisfied employees.
PS. I loved the reflective questions spread out throughout the book.
Are you a Customer Service Leader looking for superior performance results?
Here's the action plan author Cheryl Bachelder suggests in the book:
1. Establish a daring destination (bold goals) for your team and organization
2. Focus on the vital few things that must be addressed
3. Provide the resources needed to reach the destination
4. Create a work environment that brings out the best in people
5. Measure and report progress
6. Be consistent
My favourite quote: "If you ask the people what constrains their performance, it is usually not skills, it is the work environment established by the leader. The work environment inspires boldness, innovation, and excellence, or it can strangle the capability and productivity of the people and the team. This is the work of the leader: to create a work environment that yields superior results. "
Additionally, one of the most compelling aspects of the book is its emphasis on finding purpose in one's work. Cheryl Bachelder underscores the importance of aligning personal and organizational values, and how this alignment can be a driving force behind superior performance. The book explores how leaders can inspire their teams to find meaning and purpose in what they do, ultimately contributing to a sense of fulfillment and a deeper commitment to the organization's mission. This focus on purpose is a powerful motivator that goes beyond the standard leadership strategies, making it a must-read for those looking to create not just high-performing teams, but also deeply engaged and satisfied employees.
PS. I loved the reflective questions spread out throughout the book.
July 14, 2019
I received this book from a goodreads giveaway.
This is one of the best books on leadership that I have read (and I've read a bunch). If you have an interest in leadership or are hoping improving your skills in this area, pick up this book! It's well written with lots of good advice and questions to help you develop ways to improve your leadership skills in whatever role you play in work/life. This one is a keeper for me.
This is one of the best books on leadership that I have read (and I've read a bunch). If you have an interest in leadership or are hoping improving your skills in this area, pick up this book! It's well written with lots of good advice and questions to help you develop ways to improve your leadership skills in whatever role you play in work/life. This one is a keeper for me.
November 16, 2022
If you lack the time, then chapter 4 would be the most effective way to approach this management helper book.
The leader's IQ declines with every promotion. She gets further from the people, from the facts and further from the insights she needs to lead. Listening carefully and learning continuously are the antidote from our distance from the reality. Ask open ended questions and pause.
If you say you are humble, you most probably are not.
The leader's IQ declines with every promotion. She gets further from the people, from the facts and further from the insights she needs to lead. Listening carefully and learning continuously are the antidote from our distance from the reality. Ask open ended questions and pause.
If you say you are humble, you most probably are not.
January 27, 2018
Dare to Serve was well worth the read. I truly believe the books message rings true for servant leaders everywhere. Treat followers as you want to be treated, lead from the shadows and guide them in the ways of leadership so they may grow and it will provide positive results for one's organization.
March 13, 2019
This book inspired me to want to provide better customer service in my career. Customer service can absolutely change the entire atmosphere of a business. This book had real life examples of how one can fix their business and challenges you to take a step back and better yourself as a leader to ensure the industry you work in is successful. This would be a good book for anyone that works.
December 1, 2019
I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book. Reading about Ms. Bachelder's perspective of servant leadership from her world at Popeye's Chicken.
There are several great suggestions on what it means to be a servant leader, and how to go about putting others first, for the good of the company.
I enjoyed this book. Reading about Ms. Bachelder's perspective of servant leadership from her world at Popeye's Chicken.
There are several great suggestions on what it means to be a servant leader, and how to go about putting others first, for the good of the company.
January 8, 2022
I heard the author interviewed on a pod and immediately borrowed this book from the library. A quick listen, filled with helpful insights about leadership principles to pursue and avoid. I especially appreciated her thought that it is better to lean into one’s strengths than to spend too much time trying to change weaknesses into strengths. It takes some of the burden away.
September 8, 2023
It’s always interesting to hear successful people reflect on why they have been successful - whether it’s the choices they’ve made, their inner drive, a North Star belief, faith or just great luck and uncanny timing. Cheryl’s journey provides insight into her beliefs with a nice set of take-always that can be applied in big and small ways. I appreciated her story.
January 30, 2019
I was super interested in the concept of Servant Leadership - I found a few good nuggets in here, but nothing amazing. The author helped turn Popeye's around, and she reminds you of that quite often. :)
November 2, 2021
Great book! She has so many wonderful thoughts and examples of putting others first to achieve the big results. I love how she provides discussions, information, and activities to gauge where to you and to help improve to where you want to be. Well done!
March 4, 2022
I really liked it and recommend it to everyone at all levels.
Prior to reading many books and due to my many other personal responsibilities,
I couldn't get enough time to really write a personalized review,
but this is really a good book you have to read.
Prior to reading many books and due to my many other personal responsibilities,
I couldn't get enough time to really write a personalized review,
but this is really a good book you have to read.
January 18, 2023
I have worked in the QSR industry for 20 years, it’s refreshing to hear the way all leaders truly can impact people. The food industry is often looked down upon as a career choice and Cheryl shared how the mindset of people first has lead to all around success for the people she leads and Popeyes.
July 3, 2017
Amazing insight on Leadership.
January 24, 2019
Solid read, some good theories bit nothing ground breaking.
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