The first job is often the tool you need. You’re a teenager who wants to achieve freedom and independence (or just find your own source of income when mom and dad’s bank runs dry).
You don’t take a job because it’s a step on your career path. You take it because it is available. But along the way, you pick up skills or learn something that helps you for decades. It’s true for everyone from line workers to the C-suite.
We’re a bit curious about how the CFOs of some of the country’s biggest companies are doing. What is the first job they hold – not in the post-college days, when they see a lifelong occupation, but in the early years? And what, if anything, did he take away from that position?
Here are some of his stories, edited for length and clarity:
Lainie Goldstein, CFO, Take-Two Software Interactive
I worked in a pharmacy that my brother opened when I was about 15 years old. I worked as a register and back at the pharmacy, where I helped count the pills.
It taught me work ethic at a young age. My dad was very strong in having a work ethic and making your own money and making sure you understand the value of the dollar. He is a doctor and not someone who wants to give you allowance without you working.
I really liked it. I thought about becoming a pharmacist, but when I went to college, I went straight to business school…[and realized] accounting is more about logical thinking than math.
Pascal Desroches, CFO, AT&T
My very first job was as a junior counselor at a summer day camp when I was 14. I was responsible for a small group of Campers aged 6 to 12; take them on a day trip to the museum or the zoo, play in the pool, and, of course, make sure they have fun! As CFO, it is my job to be a good steward of the capital entrusted to me. I strongly believe that the lessons I learned about responsibility, management, and leadership while being a camp counselor have benefited my career, and continue to benefit me today.
It was the first time in my life that I was truly responsible for the well-being of others (besides my siblings). It’s my job to keep them safe, motivated, and supported. Learning to take responsibility and understand the gravity of what you believe is an incredible lesson to learn to be young in life. Also, part of my job is planning the day’s activities—and sticking to the schedule. Being reliable and trustworthy are important traits in a good manager. And not to mention, the ability to solve problems … which, as a teenager leading a young child, is something that happens every day.
I take my job as a counselor very seriously, and understand the influential role I play in many of these children’s lives. Because of this, it has become very important for me to always act with kindness, optimism, and patience—and to learn how to lead and motivate a team with the right interpersonal dynamics.
Ian Borden, CFO and executive vice president, McDonald’s
My first job out of high school was working part-time at the local public library in Parry Sound, Ontario. This project taught me the importance of discipline; I have a lot of autonomy in my role, so I learned how to interact directly with customers and find motivation to get things done without interruption.
When I read widely, it exposed me to many other book topics and categories than I have used to, ultimately instilling a lifelong interest in reading and continuing to study.
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