In a recent interview with LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy emphasized the critical role of maintaining a positive attitude in the early stages of one’s career and he provided some important tips for success in a tech career.
Drawing from his own experiences and observations, Jassy, who has been with Amazon since 1997, offered valuable advice for young professionals aiming to succeed.
The Impact of Attitude on Career Success
“A surprisingly large part of your success, especially in your 20s, comes down to attitude,” said Jassy, now 56. However, he clarified that having a positive attitude goes beyond merely being cheerful. It involves being a reliable team player, consistently meeting deadlines, and demonstrating a proactive “can-do” spirit.
To cultivate this mindset, Jassy suggests young professionals ask themselves the following questions:
- Do I put in the hard work?
- Am I an optimist rather than a complainer?
- Do I keep my promises?
- Can I collaborate effectively with others?
These questions, though seemingly simple, are often overlooked. “It’s surprising how rare a great attitude can be,” Jassy remarked. “And it makes a big difference.” With a positive mindset, individuals are more likely to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the challenges and opportunities that come their way.
Jassy’s Journey at Amazon
Jassy’s career at Amazon began when he joined the company as a marketing manager at the age of 29. Just five years later, he received a unique opportunity to serve as Jeff Bezos’s first “shadow” advisor, attending every meeting with the CEO.
This role, which Jassy saw as an invaluable learning experience, allowed him to develop his leadership skills and gain unparalleled insights into the company’s operations.
Despite some colleagues advising against the position, Jassy focused on the potential benefits. “Even if it didn’t work out for either of us, I could always move on,” he said. “But if it did, it would be an unparalleled experience.” This positive outlook paid off, significantly shaping his career trajectory.
Addressing Challenges and Criticism
While Amazon has achieved remarkable success, its leadership has faced criticism, particularly regarding the treatment of warehouse workers during the pandemic and the company’s demanding work environment. Jassy has acknowledged these concerns, admitting that there is always room for improvement.
“We’re like a small country with so many employees,” he stated at the 2021 GeekWire Summit. “There’s always room to do better.” This acknowledgment underscores the importance of continuous improvement and maintaining a positive attitude even when facing criticism.
Important Tips for Success in a Tech Career for Young Professionals
From Jassy’s insights, several important tips for success in a tech career emerge for young professionals:
1# Adopt a Positive Attitude
A positive attitude is not just about being cheerful but involves hard work, optimism, reliability, and effective collaboration.
2# Embrace Challenges
Stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new challenges can lead to significant personal and professional growth.
3# Focus on Opportunities
Viewing opportunities through a positive lens, even when others advise against them, can lead to unparalleled experiences and career advancement.
4# Commit to Continuous Improvement
Recognize that there is always room for improvement and strive to do better, both individually and as part of an organization.
Conclusion
Andy Jassy’s journey at Amazon illustrates the profound impact of a positive attitude on career success. Fostering a mindset of hard work, optimism, reliability, and collaboration allows young professionals to navigate their early careers more effectively and embrace growth opportunities.
Despite the challenges and criticisms that may arise, maintaining a commitment to continuous improvement and a positive outlook can make a significant difference in achieving long-term success.
For those looking to thrive in their careers, Jassy’s advice serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of attitude. As you reflect on your own professional journey, consider how you can incorporate these principles to enhance your growth and success.
Focusing on these key elements and maintaining a positive attitude will better position you to navigate the challenges of your early career and capitalize on the opportunities that come your way.
