Leadership Lessons from a 300 Year Old Company

Several months ago I ran across the short films produced by Kikkoman (The makers of soy sauce). Of course I do enjoy soy sauce, but I it is not something I really think about when looking for leadership insight; however, I was amazed by the Kikkoman family creed. They have developed this creed over their 300 + year history. 

They begin with an old Japanese axiom: 

“Make Haste Slowly.” It means to advance and grow, but to do so with tremendous thought and care.

The Kikkoman creed:

•  Ensure Progress and Family Prosperity

• Faith is The Source of Virtue

• Politeness Brings Peace

• Virtue is the Cause; Prosperity is the Effect

• Preserve Discipline and Maintain Tradition

• Business Depends on People

• Education is Our Responsibility

• Approach all Living Beings with Love

• Make Every Effort to Do as Much as You Can

• True Earning Comes from the Labor of Sweat

• Strive to Prosper Together with the Public

• Clearly Communicate Success or Failure

• Consult with Family

• Don’t Carelessly Fall into Debt

• Give to Society as Much as You Can

• Always Consult with People Before Making a Decision

Over the next several months I will pick an article from the creed to explore deeper.

Your voice is important; I would love to hear from you.

 Which of the above creeds are important to you? What creed would you create for your family?

You can read part 2 here

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About the Author: Jon Stallings

I am enthusiastic about helping others discover their purpose and grow into a deeper relationship with Jesus. It is great to see their eyes light up at their “Ah Ha!” moment when they discover they were created for something more. My hope is that this blog will help encourage and inspire you along your way. Join the conversation and take the time to share with me your own story. I have been married to my beautiful wife Janice for over 30 years. We currently live in McDonough Georgia with our daughter. Our two boys have left the nest and we have two wonderful grand kids. Of course we cannot forget about our dog Bear.