I now understand how things happen for a reason. Had I stayed where I was, I could never truly appreciate the incredible people and opportunities that I have found where I am today.
1. What led you to the mission of being a general manager?
Over the past ten years, I’ve worked in a lot of different capacities in the service industry. What I have found is a passion for guest service. As one can imagine, there are many different bosses working in the food service industry. I have had some great and not so great bosses. This drove me to be the best manager I can be. I wanted to help people develop, reach, and exceed their goals. Ultimately, my mission is to be a successful, happy person, have fun, and help as many people as I can along the way.
2. What does this mission mean to you?
As a general manager, I have to “generally manage”. However, the job does not stop with managing. Every day, I have the opportunity to affect and touch the lives of hundreds of people. I learn new things from both my employees and restaurant guests. Learning, coaching, empathizing, listening, understanding, organizing are just some of the skills required to become a good general manager. I hire, train, motivate, and care for my employees and I learn from them. In order to succeed in my mission, I have to give and take — and give some more.
3. What was your worst day as a general manager, and how did you survive?
My worst day was when I was working for another company and was laid off for the second time. I had moved to a new state and expected to be with the man I’d been with for seven years. However, on this day, I found myself not having a fiancé, not having a job, having a mortgage, having a car payment, and having a choice. My choice was simple. I could roll over, pity myself, and ultimately give up, or shake it off, see this as a gift from God, and see this worst day as an exciting new chapter in my life. I’m glad I chose the latter and fought. This low helped me appreciate the highs.
4. What was your best day as a general manager?
My best day was the same as the worst day. I was soon able to find employment with a great company. I now have the opportunity to work for Noodles and Company. They truly care about the people who work for them and the guests they serve. Noodles and Company has a mission greater than just making a profit. The corporation cares about people.
This company allows me to do great things. I started a program partnering with another service organization in the community. We reward patients for good dental and medical check ups. I also organize community benefits and give directly to nonprofits. It feels good to give back because giving is the right thing to do. I imagine if everyone would give a little time, energy and/or money, more people would have a chance to achieve their own missions.
I now understand how things happen for a reason. Had I stayed where I was, I could never truly appreciate the incredible people and opportunities that I have found where I am today.
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