Oscar Munoz’s Post

With all the hype around new technologies like AI, I think it's important for leaders to remember there's a difference between ‘keeping up’ with the latest trends versus ‘getting caught up’ in changes. For example, businesses' digital advantage became crucial in a touchless COVID environment. I saw this firsthand at United, where we made huge strides in technology leading into COVID. Rather than relying on non-personal interactions, though, we used technology in a way that allowed us to overcome social distancing through people-centric interactions. Whether it be COVID, AI, or some other new technology, disruptions are bound to occur again. The way CEOs respond will be critical. Yes, it's important to acknowledge changes, but don't let disruptions become distractions from your overall mission. Continuous learning, a focus on core values, and balanced leadership are the non-technical tools that will always rule the day. #BusinessStrategy #BusinessAdvice #Adaptability #Leadership #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #WorkplaceTechnology

I've dedicated a significant part of my career to the transportation field, particularly aviation. Having spent so much time with pilots, mechanics, and avionics enthusiasts of all types, I've gained a special respect and appreciation for everything it takes to get us off the ground, then from point A to point B. From the Montgolfiers' first hot air balloon in 1783, to the Wright Brothers, and on to jet propulsion, and the ongoing pursuit of greater speed and altitude — the story of aviation has been one of dramatic firsts and breathtaking innovation. Congratulations to #BoomSupersonic on their latest breakthroughs that will lead to faster and more sustainable air travel!

For a leader, just a few decades ago, think how foreign the concepts of cooperation, adaptability, and shared vision would be. Sadly, the idea of sharing success with teams is still alien to some leaders. Our job, as leaders, is to show our people what success looks like, give them the tools to achieve it, and inspire them along the way. I can't think of a job I'd rather do. #Leadership #OfficeCulture https://entm.ag/7edsWR

During my time at United, I had the privilege of traveling to our flight training center in Denver to participate in ‘captain upgrades.’ The often anticipated tradition officially marked the moment when an aviator made the move from the right-hand seat to the left-hand seat — officially becoming a captain. For anyone who's been in a cockpit of a plane, you know that those seats might be a few inches apart, but the weight of that newfound responsibility can feel immense. One of the captains at that ceremony shared a quote with me. He said, ‘A first officer can always look left and receive help, but once you're a captain, you look to your left, and you only see your reflection in the mirror.’ We often talk about trust in each other, but a true leader knows how to have trust in him or herself. It's an approach I've personally embraced and helped provide me with reassurance in times that I needed to steer the ship. Most important, however, is your personal approach, and to that end, your ability to lean in on your own judgement with the knowledge and feedback from everyone around you. This will help set the tone for your entire organization. #ProfessionalGrowth #Leadership #LeadershipTrait #Responsibility

I have the opportunity to speak at many events, but have one coming up this November that I am particularly excited about. Why? Because I’ll be speaking directly with the leaders who can have a direct impact on the deteriorating levels of trust in organizations and in our wider society. Trust, today, is one of the most powerful intangibles driving business impacts. The Trust Academy convenes senior executives and distinguished thought leaders from across industries to collaborate, share insights and suggest action for the challenges ahead. I look forward to sharing my own stories of recovered trust at #UnitedAirlines and meeting everyone at Trust Academy this fall. #TrustLeadershipInstitute https://lnkd.in/dtmC6Hyd

Why not let your customers peer behind the curtain? Aside from sharing your trade secrets, there's a great deal of upside in extreme transparency. Transparency builds trust and trust fosters loyalty. This is as true with brands as it is with the relationships we keep. Think about the roles transparency and trust play with our friends, significant others and colleagues. What do you think? How transparent should companies be? #Leadership #Transparency https://lnkd.in/dcv-nz3x

‘Be the brand’ is a slogan often used in employee communications. Brands are hard to build, easy to lose, and are operated in a way where every decision adds value to an already valuable organization. At the same time, today's consumer is smart. They know when a company is cashing in on a brand, rather than enhancing its intrinsic value. They can read between the lines and know when trust has deteriorated. We've seen many recent examples of brand trust erosion, whether it be in the airline industry with recent events at Boeing, or in other sectors such as technology, where user privacy is an ongoing concern. The fact remains: whether it be a crisis in confidence, employee dissatisfaction, or other recent issues, the status quo simply isn't good enough. Looking back on that original phrase, I'm tempted to add a second line: "Don't just be the brand, be the change." Strive to go beyond the superficial aspects of branding to create meaningful, memorable moments that resonate deeply with your customers and maintain trust. It's about fostering connections, delivering exceptional value, and leaving a lasting impact on your customers. In other words, don't just represent your brand, embody the entire customer relationship that makes it unforgettable. #BusinessAdvice #Brand #BrandAwareness #BusinessStrategy

I could sum up the early part of my career in three words: "navigating two worlds." On one hand, here's a Latino, blue-collared guy working in a fast-paced corporate society. On the other hand, I was grateful to have opportunities that allowed me to rapidly rise into leadership positions at the organizations I was a part of. The trade-off? I was trying to be the person people WANTED me to be rather than the person I was. I did this interview with Washington Post Live a while ago, but the lessons are just as relevant today. I quote my friend Bill Norwood, the first African American pilot for United, time and again: "I lived in a world where you knew you had to work twice as hard to get half as far." For anyone in a leadership position, especially young leaders, you will face a burden of perfection from others around you. The way I've always handled this is to ‘swing easy’ — embrace your authenticity and cherish your roots. Being true to who you are is a value you can't afford to compromise. Watch the full interview: https://lnkd.in/dR4F5d3u #AuthenticSelf #LeadershipAdvice #Leadership #Authenticity #BusinessAdvice

Have you noticed that the qualities defining success at work are often the ones that make us good partners and friends? At some point, we became used to the idea that we have to be different people inside and outside our offices. When we open up our true selves to co-workers and practice empathy, we see trust and collaboration blossom. #OfficeCulture #Leadership