Connor DeLaney’s Post

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Sales Strategist | Endless Customers Guide | HubSpot Diamond Partner | Career Mentor For College Students

My first job interview was at Leo's Restaurant, a local family-owned restaurant in my hometown. I was barely 16 years old and had just gotten my driver's permit. Most people who applied at Leo's just filled out a piece of paper at the counter and left, hoping to hear back. My application process went a bit differently. I got an "interview" with the owner because of my dad's connection with him in our town's Small Business Association. We scheduled a time together and I got to chat with him for 30 minutes. He asked me some of the typical questions you'd expect about why I want to work there and what do I know about the restaurant business, but there was one question that changed the way I was thinking about this job: "When you're done working here, who do you want to be?" Hmm... that was an unexpectedly deep question. 1. Isn't this just a job at a small restaurant? 2. Do you not want me to be here forever? 3. Is this going to be life-changing? But this question taught me the lesson that everyone talks about... Every job you have is an opportunity. Looking back, my answer was telling for the rest of my career. "I want to be more comfortable and confident talking to people I don't know." The owner smiled and answered, "Well you've come to the right place. Can you come in on Saturday?" That one question made me realize this job was going to push me out of my comfort zone and I'm all the better for it. Four and a half years later, I left Leo's after being a busser, waiter, back-of-house, host, and manager with skills I never would have had before. I was leaving for an internship that I got an interview for because of a shift I picked up on a Saturday night at Leo's. Another story for another day 😉 #CareerJourney #FirstJob #InterviewQuestions

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I’ve held at one time or another every position in the hospitality industry. From busboy to manager. Invaluable skills you learn.

Kimberly Reddington

Your Marketing Partner For Growth 🚀 Let's Reach The Next Level

3mo

Love this and now I love Leo’s even more 💓

Tanya Miller

Transplant, Urology, & Plastics RN at OHSU

3mo

You’re such a good story teller Connor, I always enjoy your thoughtful posts!! Being able to talk to new people with ease is such a good life skill ✅ and of course Leo’s is amazing!!

Bridget Cramer

Pro Builder & Professional Remodeler Forty Under 40 Winner | Finance & Commerce Magazine Women in Construction Unsung Hero | Director of Marketing at Lindus Construction

3mo

Love this! My first job also introduced me to the service industry, where I gained invaluable lessons, such as thinking on my feet, managing my time effectively, and honing my communication skills. I will always be grateful to those who gave me the opportunity to prove myself, especially when I had no prior work experience.

Michael Ritzema

Championing Better Payroll Solutions for Trucking Companies | President at Superior Trucking Payroll Service

3mo

Love it! We encourage restaurant employees to apply when we post an entry level position. They've learned people skills you don't find everywhere. They also learn how to manage multiple priorities well.

Thomas A. Ahern

Modern Elder | Executive Coach | Ironman

2mo

Kudos to you Connor for taking the position despite your initial angst. It’s that kind of risk taking that opens the door for opportunity, growth and fulfillment.

Rachel Berlin

People connector ● Sales Coach ● Flooring Expert

3mo

I've always said everyone should work in a restaurant in some capacity. I bartended... which was a huge confidence builder. Server was a lot tougher for me... but certainly the ability to speak to ALL TYPES of people and also get them to come back... was a great training for sales. Love this!

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