It’s a powerful thing, your first job. Putting in a hard day’s work, receiving that first paycheck or $5 bill from Mrs. Jackson across the street, and immediately running to Walmart to get the latest WOW CD release–it’s the first real taste of sweet independence. So much can be learned from those first work experiences. We recognize that our past experiences have greatly shaped our ability to perform well today. So we took some time to reflect. Here are the first gigs of FoxFuel employees and the valuable lessons learned.
Rosie
The Gig
Sonic Carhop
The Lesson
This job taught me how to engage with customers, do quick math on the spot, and be punctual. By the end of my time there, I was confident about speaking to strangers, could back count change quickly (impressive at 15!) and learned what the consequences were for not being on time. These have all stuck with me, albeit the math may be a bit slower at this point.
Drew
The Gig
Mowing lawns in the neighborhood
The Lesson
The quality of your work is just as important as your speed.
Joe
The Gig
Making sandwiches at a McAlister's Deli
The Lesson
I didn't ever want to work in food service again.
Adam
The Gig
Pizza Hut
The Lesson
I will never forget the feeling I felt showing up for work up until I quit. I felt like every shift was my chance to make goals for myself, whether that be to work the oven, or actually prepare the pizzas. But my goal was always to move up and never be content at the bottom. I still carry that with me today. Also, I can fold like 50 pizza boxes in under a minute. So, there’s that.
Ian
The Gig
Ride Operator at Hershey Park
The Lesson
Enthusiasm and empathy are not a given in co-workers, superiors, or clients. Not everyone has a conscience for the way their actions impact others. Defeating the "Not My Problem-ers" requires an understanding for how your job performance affects others, and the willingness to put your own opinions or desires second to the action that is needed to resolve a situation or accomplish a collective goal.
Kelsey
The Gig
Babysitter
The Lesson
In middle school, I kept the kids in the neighborhood, but only when my mom was home just in case something went wrong. So I learned that my mom always had my back, and how to make a mean grilled cheese sandwich. Kid-approved.
Hutzel
The Gig
Cutting grass for about 25 yards in my parents’ neighborhood
The Lesson
To always have good communication with your customers and to wear sunscreen.
Colton
The Gig
Chik-Fil-A
The Lesson
I don't belong in a corporate work environment that dictates how you have to greet every human being you interact with.
Ashley
The Gig
Hostess at TGI Fridays
The Lesson
There is always a way to solve, or at least lessen, a problem and you should be the one to take the initiative to do so. Something that may not seem like a big deal to you can make a huge difference to the person who is suffering the consequences. For example, free chocolate cake proved a great way to resolve conflict.
Lauren
The Gig
Babysitting triplets
The Lesson
They were fun, but two were identical so it was more challenging than you'd expect! I learned that communication and empathy are key when working with other people. I've found that still rings true more than ever working these days too!
Rachel
The Gig
Waitress at the Amish Heart
The Lesson
Learned I'm not really a fan of frilly aprons and that I might occasionally struggle with authority.