What was your first job?

Delivering newspapers.

How old were you?

12 years old.

How much were you paid?

Almost nothing plus tips.

How was your first job different than you thought it would be?

I remember having to deliver papers in a hurricane, as well as in snowy conditions. I didn’t think about that when I thought I was just going to be delivering newspapers.

What important lessons or skills learned in your first job have been instrumental in your success?

I understood that when you went the extra mile, like making sure the newspaper was put in a particular place for certain customers, they appreciated it when I came around every week to collect for the paper.

Did any of those lessons specifically carry into subsequent jobs after your first? How did you use those skills in your position today?

I quickly learned that customer satisfaction is no different than client satisfaction. And that over-delivering on people’s expectations easily distinguishes you from all your competitors.

Was there a specific event in your first job that taught you something you still use today?

I found that it was easier to deliver two competing newspapers rather than just one, so that I didn’t have to skip any houses. And the increase in efficiency for my time was incredible.

Did you face any obstacles that had a significant impact on your career path?

Working full time and going to law school full time, while being married with a baby, was almost enough to make me cry. But I learned the value of perseverance.

What advice would you give to someone starting his or first job?

Look at it as a springboard and a learning experience rather than having to work hard for less money than you think you’re worth. It’s amazing how many things you learn by osmosis that you don’t recognize that you’re picking up at the time. Look at people who are successful and try to see what they do (not what they know) that is different in work style.

What do you find most rewarding about your position today?

Helping other people by passing on some of what I've already learned.