Mark Canlis, Co-Owner of Canlis, Episode 196
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Mark Canlis, co-owner of Canlis Restaurant in Seattle, joined the family business in 2003 after graduating from Cornell University and serving as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force. His leadership skills, honed through diverse experiences, such as working with renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer, have been instrumental in navigating the restaurant through various challenges, including the recent global pandemic. Alongside his brother Brian, Mark is the fourth generation of Canlis restaurateurs.
On The Wow Factor, I have Mark Canlis sharing the origins of Canlis, the two distinct types of people who eat there, and expanding on he curates an amazing team that enhances the diner experience. He provides invaluable advice for the next generation that might be considering joining a family business and emphasizes the importance of giving children the freedom to explore paths outside the family tradition. Mark also shares how Canlis navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with humor and resilience, bringing much-needed laughter to the Seattle community.
“There are few industries in the world that'll teach you as much about people as the hospitality industry.” - Mark Canlis
“Experience outside of the family company is golden.” - Mark Canlis
“If you're going to start a relationship, any relationship, you need to start out on the right foot.” - Mark Canlis
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Mark’s advice for the next generation about potentially joining the family business
The importance of giving your children the freedom to move away from the family business
Why fine dining is for setting aside and hallmarking certain moments in life
How their wine list has been curated over the generations to enhance diners’ experiences
Qualities they look for when Canlis is hiring, including an applicant’s character and the things that they crave deeply
How to build a positive, long-term relationship with your team
The importance of creating an amazing long-term company culture
Mark shares his perspective on the “character versus skill” conundrum
Why Canlis’ mission is to inspire people “to turn toward one another”
How Mark’s team deals with conflict in the restaurant with love and tact
Mark Canlis’ Word of Wisdom:
There is so much opportunity for anyone in leadership today to be a person who is bringing hope and light into this world.
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