Phil Bruno
Treat ‘em Right
Website: www.treatemright.com
Industry: tourism/hospitality
Education: bachelor’s degree in travel and tourism, Saint Louis University, Parks College
Family: wife, Janice Bruno, 37 years of marriage; two sons — Anthony, 36, wife Luyen, granddaughter Evelyn and grandson Roman; Nick, 35, wife Melissa, and granddaughters Rylan and Kadyn
What is your mission?
To aid people with skills and knowledge that will make their lives and those around them better. Once achieved, they become better employees and exceed customer expectations.
What was your first job?
A busboy for Cunetto House of Pasta. I started on opening night in 1972. It was a great job that was full of energy.
What was your worst job?
I was the fifth supervisor in seven years at a local St. Louis attraction. The turnover rate was bad due to upper management. They wouldn’t change, causing my staff to run rampant. It was horrible, and HR actually told me, “You have the worst job here.”
What led you to your industry?
From early on, I loved being in the middle of people having fun, enjoying family and friends, and being part of creating memorable experiences.
What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?
Said YES! to a New York Times interview and the design of a new web presence showcasing new markets and success stories.
Who is your industry role model?
I was lucky enough to have access to several mentors once I was on my own.
There are pieces from all of them that fit into how and what I do today.
How do you try to differentiate your business from others in your industry?
I take the time to learn my customer’s real needs and then design custom solutions. In-depth interviews with stakeholders, producing a plan and then engaging the customer throughout the process.
What’s the hottest trend in your industry, and are you going to jump on board?
I am neck-deep in experiential marketing. My clients hire me to enhance visitor experiences to their cities by educating thousands of hospitality workers on the brand promise and destination knowledge.
What’s the hardest part of your job?
Introducing a new tactic in a traditionally slow-to-change industry. So, getting to YES!
What’s the best part?
Being able to tour cities and design solutions and then watching how it all comes to life.
What best advice would you share with new entrepreneurs?
Embrace our youngest generations. The world is their Ted Drewes custom concrete.
What book is on your nightstand?
“The Experience Economy,” second edition, by Pine and Gilmore.
What has made you successful in your industry and in St. Louis?
Applying lessons, I’ve learned the hard way to benefit others so they might be saved the pain.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Play bocce at Milo’s with friends and family. Our team won the end-of-the-season tournament. n
Submitted 6 years 170 days ago