According to Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, having a positive and can-do attitude is the key to getting ahead at work, more than being the fastest learner or the smartest.
Amazon CEO's Best Career Advice
Jassy, who became Amazon's CEO after Jeff Bezos stepped down in 2021, shared his "best career advice" in a new interview with LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky and emphasized that much of one's success, especially in their 20s, is influenced by their attitude.
More than being cheerful, a positive attitude at work means working well in a team and honoring deadlines, among other important strengths. To know when you are with the right mindset, you should confidently answer "yes" to the following questions:
- Are you working hard?
- Are you more of a can-do than naysaying?
- Are you doing what you have promised to do?
- Can you work in a team?
While these strategies are so simple, they are often overlooked. People would be surprised at how infrequently people have great attitudes, which makes such a big difference, says Jassy. Enthusiasm also fuels you to seize opportunities and boosts your confidence to step out of your comfort zone and handle any challenges that come your way.
CEO Jassy's Roadmap to Success
Jassy joined Amazon as a marketing manager at the age of 29 in 1997. Five years into his career, he was selected as Bezos's first shadow advisor, a role similar to a chief of staff, attending all of the CEO's meetings. Despite advice from several colleagues at Amazon advising against it, Jassy focused on the positive aspects of the job and enhanced his leadership skills by accepting the offer.
Jassy thought that if the role did not work out for him or Jeff after a few months, he could explore other options. However, if it did work out, he considered it an unparalleled opportunity, which was an incredible experience.
Amazon's Controversial Pandemic Culture and Leadership
Amazon's leadership has long faced criticism for treating warehouse employees during the COVID-19 pandemic, allegedly fostering a harsh workplace culture. Speaking at the GeekWire Summit in 2021, Jassy previously acknowledged the need for improvement in how the company treats its employees and admitted that there are many areas where they could do better.
A Positive Attitude Can Bring You Places
Maintaining a positive attitude can enhance your career progression regardless of your current position. Jassy emphasized that it facilitates the development of advocates and mentors, as people are inclined to support those with a positive outlook.
Research has also confirmed the advantages of maintaining a positive attitude in the workplace, including increased productivity, enhanced creativity, and prevention of burnout. Jassy highlighted that there are so many things that you cannot control in your work life, but you can control your attitude.
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