Good Morning!
I try not to put myself in a position where I feel out of place, and throughout my forty-two years in the food industry, working at most levels and wearing many hats, from starting as a clerk at 16, I have always tried to challenge myself to “Say Yes!” When opportunities arrive, if you don’t have a can-do spirit, confidence, or willingness to do so, you may never be asked again.
Now, don’t get me wrong; there have been many times when I found myself in awkward situations, and indeed, too many to list here, e.g., calling a girl to ask her out, only to have her father answer the phone. Your first days on a new job or holding your first meeting. Things personally experienced include being interviewed on television and radio, sitting in on corporate meetings, or being asked for my opinion on various matters.
However, my gut feeling has always guided me correctly. I have met some fantastic people along the way, and many who have helped me at different levels, including coworkers, Department managers, store managers, District Managers, Vice Presidents, Lawyers, and high-level HR employees under various corporate presidents. It’s been one helluva ride!
Point to Ponder: Your appearance says a lot about you, so dress the part. Show initiative, work longer hours, take classes that can advance your position, and offer your help in learning something new. Be grateful, trustworthy, and give your honest opinion when asked. However, do not necessarily tell someone what they want to hear if you disagree or think there’s a better way. Most important, pay attention and wherever life’s road leads you, make your family proud and be able to look yourself in the mirror without conviction.
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