How was your job different than you thought it would be?
It was harder, more demanding, more challenging, and more fun.

What important lessons or skills that you learned in your first job have been instrumental in your success?
I quickly learned the importance of people and building a team effort, and that has served me well in all of my business endeavors, as well as my tenure in the White House as Chief of Staff. No question the lack of interpersonal skills has been the cause of failure for many smart and hardworking people.

Have you seen how lacking those first job skills had negative effects on others?
Yes I have. The lack of dedication and focus can be a real negative in a first job, or any job for that matter. Also, how you work with both your colleagues and customers is absolutely essential to your success.

Did someone give you advice that you carried and/or later passed on to someone else?
My wonderful father was a great mentor and patron. He always supported me but never pushed me. I quickly learned from his example how to treat people, expecially customers.

What obstacles that you faced had the greatest impact on your career path?
Disappointment and lack of immediate success, particularly when you feel you have given an effort your very best and done most things right.

What advice would you give to someone starting his or her first job?
Enjoy what you do, give the effort your best shot. And again, make a genuine effort to work with other people.

What is the most valuable advice you have for young adults who want to pursue their own business plan?
Dream big but keep your feet on the ground. Plan carefully and work hard.

What is most important for young people to know about the industry you currently work in?
Maintain relationships and friendships with people whom you respect and admire around the world.

What do you find most rewarding about your position today?
Continuing to try to help build bridges between the United States and other countries both with business and diplomatically.