The AIESEC solution by DHL

Today we had a presentation form our global partner DHL. It's always interesting to hear our partners talk about AIESEC and why do they co-operate with us.

One thing what is common for our partners is that they always say: "You can feel the energy in the room". And they never miss a chance to try out a role call or a shout. Every time when partners speak, we get another confirmation to the fact that our culture IS unique and it is something what companies dream of.

DHL, like most of our partners, is very conceus on the fact that they can have a big impact on the society. Its in their hands to choose whether they want it to be good or bad. I'll bring out couple of trends that DHL is doing. To me, these trends also show the connection between us and them. They show the link, why we co-operate.

Firstly, DHL is a logistics company which means that they use a lot of gasoline. Now what DHL has come up with is that they use vegetable oil in running trucks. Now I'm not sure if that is right - it seems too science fiction to me, but thats what I heard.

Secondly, DHL wants to be the first choice for their clients. Sounds familiar? To those who aren't aieseccars - our vision for 2010 also states that we want to be first choice in our target group.

For DHL being first choice starts from employees. For them, happy employees equal happy customers. Its an easy formula, but most of the companies haven't realized it. Taking care of customers is critical to obtain your market share and on the whole - just to survive. Its the way the customers are been treated that makes the difference.

Now, 7 caracteristics of being a great leader by DHL:
1. Positive can-do attitude;
2. Passionate work ethic;
3. Build relationships;
4. Strong values and character;
5. Set others up for success;
6. Socially responsible;
7. Sense of humor.

The one which touched me the most is nr 2. You have to be passionate about what you do and you'll never work a day in your life. I relate to this, because my AIESEC work doesn't feel like a work at all. It's more like a hobby and sometimes it just feels like I'm pampering myself by working :) Its a great feeling!

DHL spoker said that don't listen to people who say what you have to do that you'd make a lot of money. In the end, if you don't like what you are doing, you won't get the money anyway. And it was good to hear that from a respectful person, who has proved himself. This is something with what we struggle in AIESEC daily.