Back to Basics

Relationship Building

When I asked GCRTA’s Joe Calabrese what advice he could give other transit managers, he gave me a list:

• Quality is number one.
• Determine what your region needs.
• Talk with customers and employees.
• Minimize your time in the office.
• Don’t be afraid to change direction — go with your “gut” instincts.
• Keep everyone informed.
• Be one with your community.
• Understand that we do very important work.
• Never stop selling public transit.

“You got a mission. You keep your head down and keep the legs driving. But obviously develop some allies in the meantime,” Calabrese says.

“Really working with elected officials. Making sure they are supportive. Finding out what they need to support the system, support you and support the agency.

“It’s really building those relationships like everything else in life. We were able to do that."