Prompt 8: My hands on experience

I have had a wide range of experiences in the work force, but not necessarily in a business that I plan on going into in the future. However, the work that I did was for a business, which helped me understand how businesses need to run in order to thrive. First of all, I worked for a small market in my hometown, which gave me my first glimpse into what happens behind closed doors. Before, It was hard to appreciate the service that I was given when I was a customer there. I learned from the owners of the market, that customer satisfaction was the most important thing for them. They went the extra mile every time a customer needed something to make sure that they were more than happy. In all businesses, I think customer satisfaction is something that needs to be ensured.

I also worked in a factory that stamped out car parts and modified dies for General Motors. The main thing i took away from there is that I really understood how hierarchy within a business worked. They had the die helpers (me), which was the lowest tier, then the die makers, the leaders, the foreman, the VP and executive board, and the owner. They all worked together throughout the day to make sure the shop ran smoothly, and they were producing as efficiently as possible. I really got a sense for what was necessary for that to happen. The passion of the workers was surprising to me because of how awful the conditions were. These guys got up at 5:30 in the morning and worked until 5 in the afternoon. They had one hour long lunch break. I don't think there was one instance when either of them complained, they just kept doing their best for the company.

When I talked to the owner of the company, he really stressed that his philosophy as a business owner and president, was to try to get his workers to take ownership in the company, and take pride in their work. He didn't think that they would be able to be where they are at today, unless his employees actually cared about their work. This is a very important thing that I took from my experience. I always have dreamed of having a job that I am truly passionate about. I don't want to roll out of bed and hate my life every day. The workers at this company taught me that you should really love what you're doing. Even if it's in the roughest of conditions. They didn't make any excuses, and thats what I admired, and hope to take after them in my future as a businessperson.

by Jack Denison