Shawn Adams

When did you get your first Big Break? How did you get it? How did it go?

At 15, I finally obtained the required juvenile work permit, which allowed me to work a limited number of hours, I could imagine the wealth rolling in, I was going to make real money!. Applying for a job at the local grocery, the manager, a tall, seriously imposing man handed me a paper application and said "Fill this out, and come back at 14h00." I returned promptly at 14h00 carrying the carefully completed application as if it were gold. On the way through the parking lot toward the grocery, i noted a brand new, white 1971 Corvette parked in the last row. Sweating and nervous I handed the paper to the manager, checked his watch, glanced dismissively at the application, tossed it aside and asked "Where do you see yourself in 5 years?" Oh no, I'm doomed, a question ! Not thinking clearly because of my nervousness, i blurted out "Who's Corvette is that ?" The manager replied "It's mine, why?" "Well, if a store manager can afford that car, in 5 years, i want your job." My heart fell to the floor... Oh no ! did I just say that ? I'm doomed ! He hired me, and spent the next 3 years instilling (read: hammering) quality and the basic lessons of customer service , lessons that still profit today.

What is the most useful piece of career advice you got as a student, and who gave it to you?

"Whatever your hand finds to do under the sun, do it with all your might." Ecclesiastes 9:10

What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?

Go to school, go to college, go to University. In some cases, one doesn't learn much, but you will carry a sheepskin that will open doors.