In this conversation, Kavanaugh shared a defining moment from 25 years ago. Preparing to pitch a proposal to the Marines, he and his team realized the night before their presentation that their proposal wasn’t strong enough.
“We were young at that time, and didn’t really know exactly what we were doing,” Kavanaugh explained. With no time to lose, they found a 24-hour Kinkos and worked through the night to redo the entire proposal. “We put it together, went back to the hotel room, took a quick shower, and got out to Quantico,” Kavanaugh recalled.
Their hard work paid off. The Marines major who received the updated proposal told them, “We really like what you did. It hit the mark.” That made all the difference.
Since that contract, under Kavanaugh, WWT has grown into a global powerhouse with more than 10,000 employees and $20 billion in annual revenue. He was recently named one of Glassdoor’s 25 Best CEOs in America as he continues to lead WWT, helping companies create new digital experiences.
In this podcast, Kavanaugh shares valuable insights on how WWT has earned a spot on Fortune Magazine’s Best Places to Work list for 13 consecutive years, including:
Reflecting on WWT’s journey, Kavanaugh attributes much of its success to hard work. “The harder you work, the luckier you get,” he said. “Even where we are right now, you can never take something for granted. You have to be willing to put the time and effort in because it’s a competitive space out there.
"Don is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. I’ve known him for a long time and every time we talk I walk away wiser and more inspired. He is the best in the business at teaching you a skill – storytelling – that will last you a lifetime.”
“The ability for athletes to get hired is carried on through you because you are putting out the message that lessons learned from sports are important in life. It is embedded in this podcast, what you’re doing is significant.”
We speak the same language. I am inspired by the stories you tell, the people you have met, and the things you’ve done. Those of us that are competitors like to follow others that have been down that journey, so it is always fun talking to you!”
“Many of the leaders I have worked with were excellent athletes, and I think there is a direct correlation. You’re one of the few people that really has pursued this study, Don. Keep up the great work. What you are doing really makes a difference.”
“Don, you have mastered the skill of interviewing and asking great questions. That is a great skill all leaders need in order to understand their team members’ thought processes.”
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