ExMark Manufacturing’s director of marketing spoke those three simple words, as he explained their corporate philosophy during a recent visit to their main plant.  That phrase is not merely a slogan, however; it’s clearly a strong belief and way of being for their team members.  From the moment you arrive at Exmark’s Beatrice, Nebraska plant and view the employee entrance sign — to the moment you leave — it’s clear that this team is all about the reality that “every mower matters”.  It’s no wonder that products from other companies in their industry can’t compare in quality of cut and reliability.

Let’s break it down:

• “Every”. Meaning each and every thing they build.  All of them.  Excluding nothing.
• “Mower”.  It’s what they build and what they breathe in America’s Heartland.  There’s more than corn and soybeans happening in Nebraska.  For Exmark, it’s mowers; that key word can just as easily be substituted with landscape, computer, cell phone, meal, service, life…….you name it. What’s your thing that is the most important?  Which leads us to what…..
• “Matters”.  This is how you demonstrate what you care most about, through the work you do every day.  What do you do that creates the most value?  How does what you do benefit others?  In the future, will your efforts be remembered?  Does it stand out as worthy of notice by others?  Does your work make you, and your customer, proud?

Three simple words. One powerful message.  If you’d like to see what it looks like in action, visit Exmark.  If you want to apply this concept daily in your life’s work, however, you can simply ask yourself these three questions:

1. Is everything I do important?
2. What do I want to be known for?
3. Am I accountable for, and proud of, my results?  (If it truly matters, you must be.)

Then let the answers guide your actions.  Enjoy the Journey!