Throughout the past 35+ years in the foodservice industry, along with over 32 years in the military, I’ve experienced some valuable “old school” tools that have helped me to become successful in life and career. Let’s start with honesty, if you aren’t honest with yourself how can you be honest with someone else? I learned a long time ago that I cannot remember all the lies and eventually they will come back and haunt you. Be truthful with people and they will respect you for it…good, bad or indifferent. Honesty is the best policy!

If someone asks you a question and you don’t know the answer, humble yourself and admit you don’t know but will find out and respond to them. BS only goes so far (typically in a bar, under the influence). If you constantly try to BS people and they catch you, they will be cautious of what you say from that day forward. It will be hard to gain their trust that you know what you are talking about.

Have a position or make a decision, don’t be constantly on the fence with decisions and don’t continually flip flop. People will wonder if your decision was based on what side of the bed you woke up on that day. Too many times in the military my superiors could not make a decision, even though they were surrounded by extremely knowledgeable people who would advise them. Bottom line, make a decision based on the situation, past experience and research you have obtained -- make a decision! You will not always be right but will never know unless you make a decision. You will be a stronger person by learning from the experience!

Another thing I learned (sometimes the hard way) was to say “thank you” and appreciate things people do for you. Whenever we are asked to team with a client on a proposal or project, I always thank them for the teaming opportunity… believe me, it goes a long way with your relationship with them!

Volunteer, even before you are volun-told to do something. In the military, my hand was always the first one up when asked to do something, even though I had no idea what I was volunteering for (even to clean the latrine). People around notice that you are always willing to help and sometimes will get to the head of the line with a good assignment, job or promotion.  Volunteering to help others in need of assistance also soothes the soul and makes you feel good about yourself.

Market yourself through education. Employers are always looking for educated well rounded people to fill a position. College education is not all they look for (although it helps). Many times a person with hands on training outweighs someone with a 4-year degree. Continually educating yourself, whether it is taking evening college courses, industry training, professional exams, reading technical or industry related periodicals or even hobby or sports related stuff (whatever floats your boat).

These basic concepts are a solid foundation to your future success. I strongly believe that if you are honest, humble, decisive, appreciative, helpful, and educated you are unstoppable.

-- Mike Berard FCSI