Musings from the CU Suite

Written by Anthony Demangone

My family recently visited Ocean City, New Jersey.  We love the place. 

The one downside to visiting in September is that the city has begun the process of shutting down for the off-season.  The beaches are less crowded.  And many businesses on its famous boardwalk have shuttered for the year. 

But not Manco and Manco. 

It was a mob-scene on Thursday night.  While most pizza joints were empty and many businesses had closed for the season, they had a 30-minute wait for dinner.  Which we happily obliged to get a seat.

What was their secret?

• Price?  I don't think so.  Their pizza is a bit more expensive than the others.
• Location? Nope.  There are 50 other places to get pizza within a 5-minute walk.
• The menu?  Again, No.  It is very simple.  No subs.  No appetizers.  No shaker cheese.

So, what is the secret?

They make really, really good pizza.  And they serve it hot.  And quickly. 

That's it. 

In an age of bells and whistles, they focus on one product - pushing it near perfection.  And they were the only place on the boardwalk with a line. 

All of this made me think of a recent book I read: Be The Best At What Matters Most.

The premise of the book is simple, yet powerful.  Don't focus on everything.  Just focus on the important things.

Here's one of my favorite passages:

For years, we've all talked about the need to think outside the box.  I take that to mean that we need to be open to new ideas, new ways of doing things, innovation, and creative thinking.  I'm for it.  Count me in.

The trap that many have fallen into, however, is being so enamored of the idea of thinking outside the box that they've taken their eyes off the ball.  They've started spending so much time outside the box that they're losing the battle where it's being fought, which is squarely inside the box. 

I literally cheered out loud while reading this book.  I highlighted.  I underlined.  It will change the way you think about reaching for success.  I highly recommend that you read it. 

So I think Mr. Calloway and Manco and Manco's would agree on this.  If you want to be a successful pizza joint, here's a great place to start.

Make an excellent pizza. 

Questions of the day, faithful readers...what is your credit union's pizza? And how does it currently taste?

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And yes, I know many of you only read this for the pictures of Kate and Briggs.  In the name of member service, I give you the following...