I just returned from an event in Orlando to speak as a C-Suite Executive for PwC’s sales and client service leadership. We talked about tackling strategic client problems, specifically related to competitive advantage and growth. For two days, on four panels, I fielded questions with now, a friend, and the former CEO of a Fortune 10 company, in conjunction with other strategy and also, technology executives.
I started my career at PwC as an Analyst many years ago with the same eyes wide-open approach that I maintain today. It was that quality that propels me forward in my career. I have never stopped learning and, thankfully, I never will. I committed myself 20 years ago to getting very comfortable, with the discomfort that my professional life would consist of incredible and constant change, for the benefit of perspective. If one stays focused on a path of their own true professional development, the rewards come back with a remarkable professional return on investment (ROI). I never could have imagined this as an Analyst.
What I gained in the years between a PwC Analyst and now, a C-Suite Executive is my voice. I have a way of looking at problems. I come at them from new angles. I am logical, remain structured, see issues broadly with depth, and I am comfortable. By seeing so much, both in consulting and in industry, I see problems now from two sides. That is, the client who may possess an executable strategy need and, inversely, a consulting firm leader who is trying to help that client tackle that need. What I have learned is how to speak a language that resonates with industry, while utilizing the experience that I have accumulated from years in management consulting.
I encourage people starting their careers to define their guiding principle. That is, what are you here to do professionally? This is very different than what functions do you want to serve, what company do you want to work for, or what specific job do you want? Why, emotionally, are you investing in yourself and how will you maximize that investment? To me, my ROI came back this week with PwC, in the presentation of a huge smile, as I answered tough questions from very smart people.
Bastien has chosen several of its summer interns and interviews remain ongoing. I will ask our interns on day 1 to write the first page of their story and to tell me what their ROI will look like and, how it may present itself in 20 years.