Tune Into Socially Awkward to Learn Why Christine Trippi Believes “Yes is the Answer”

In this debut episode of Socially Awkward, host Calvin Tilokee welcomes Christine Trippi, Founder of The Wise Pineapple and author of Yes is the Answer, for a transformative discussion about “leading from the heart” in hospitality.

Key Strategies for Empowering Your Team

When a guest asks, “Can I upgrade my room?” During a sold-out night, the easiest answer is “No.” But Trippi challenges this instinct with two powerful tactics:

Make Friends First

“There is a yes for everything!” Trippi explains. “It’s the anxiety of confrontation that gets the better of us.”

This anxiety, Trippi mentions, is what keeps people from saying “Yes!” By pausing and connecting with the guest, we open the door to creative solutions.

Focus on What You CAN Deliver

Instead of saying “No,” Trippi advises you to offer an alternative solution that adds value. This could include a complimentary cocktail or breakfast, late checkout, or another personalized perk. Equip your team to say, “Yes,” and watch your team’s morale soar.

How Can I Set My Team Up for Success?

Trippi shares her three-step guide for hotels seeking her expertise:

Define the Goal

Is your team aligned on the same objective? If not, it’s time to find one together.

When you co-create a story with your team, the goal becomes theirs too. This unity will helps everyone see their role in daily operations. Without a shared vision, employees don’t feel empowered to make guest-focused decisions.

Strategic Planning:

“Why aren’t you at the goal?” If your answer falls outside of the four benchmarks below, it’s out of your control.

The Four Quality Benchmarks:

- Cleanliness

- Friendliness

- Maintenance

- Culture

“This is where your power lies,” Christine emphasizes.

By focusing on what you can control, you can create an action plan that will guide you and your team toward everyday wins.

Creating the Plan:

“How do you win every day?” Christine asks. This is where the fun begins.

Once you have your action plan, start by celebrating daily wins. Small victories build momentum toward accomplishing monthly and yearly goals.

Want to Listen to the Full Episode?

You can find this episode of Socially Awkward on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Christine Trippi offers a gift to listeners, so be sure to check the show notes! For more insights like these, subscribe to the S.T.A.R. Report and Socially Awkward, so you don’t miss an episode!