"Akio Urges New Toyota Employees to Act Rather Than Delay": Akio's Message to Fresh Toyota Workers
On April 1, 2021, Toyota Motor Corporation welcomed its new employees in a remote ceremony, marking a significant milestone amidst the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions. The ceremony, which was attended by over 1,100 new recruits and mid-career employees who joined since May 2020, was an opportunity for the newcomers to immerse themselves in the Toyota spirit.
President Akio Toyoda delivered a powerful message, speaking directly to each participant and addressing Toyota's management challenges and painful truths. He emphasized the importance of understanding Toyota's origins, rooted in the Toyota Production System (TPS), which was developed by Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of the Toyota Group. The TPS is based on an historical automatic loom that could stop and restock thread without using sensors, symbolising Toyota's commitment to innovation and efficiency.
Akio Toyoda also highlighted the importance of maintaining a sense of gratitude, particularly for athletes, who are watched by the outside world. He believes that athletes present a condensed version of human life and demonstrate a way of life by taking on challenges without fear of making mistakes. Mitsuru Kawai, an advisor for women's softball and a Toyota veteran with 55 years of service, echoed these sentiments, encouraging athletes to be grateful for the chance to practice every day in a great environment and to show their gratitude by playing their hardest.
During the informal Q&A session that followed the ceremony, Akio and Kawai answered questions from this year's recruits. They faced challenges related to upholding Toyota's manufacturing traditions and principles, such as the Toyota Production System and monozukuri (craftsmanship). They overcame these challenges by embracing continuous improvement (kaizen), a spirit of teamwork, and dedication to customer-centered values, as reflected in projects like restoring classic cars and developing innovative products such as prosthetic blades.
Akio Toyoda sees sports as a great way to develop people and wants Toyota's athletes to show them how to live. He believes that what Toyota looks for in its athletes is not only whether they win or lose, but what they do to come out on top in that world. This philosophy was evident in his message to those responsible for the company's future, where he shared Toyota's basic mindset and emphasized the importance of skills and philosophy in passing on what makes Toyota unique.
After the ceremony, Akio met with representatives of the attendees for an informal talk, joined by Executive Fellow Mitsuru Kawai. Toyota offers second and third careers for athletes, including as coaches or association staff, after their playing careers end. This approach reflects Toyota's commitment to nurturing and supporting its employees throughout their careers.
In conclusion, the 2021 Toyota entrance ceremony was a significant event that marked the beginning of a journey for the new recruits. They were introduced to the Toyota spirit, a philosophy that emphasises innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to customer-centered values. As they embark on their careers at Toyota, these new employees will undoubtedly carry forward the Toyota tradition, striving to make a positive impact in the world, just like their predecessors.
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