College Experiences That Helped a CFO at Compass Diversified Succeed
Ryan's most significant career lesson is "never burn bridges," emphasizing relationship-building as crucial for future opportunities. This strategy, combined with seeking roles at large companies to maximize networking potential, has led to career progression through referrals such as "they would call me and say, 'Hey, we got this awesome opportunity for you.'"
Networking, Relationship Building, Career Advancement, Professional Development, Large Company Advantages
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ryan Faulkingham
CFO
Compass Diversified
Lehigh
Fordham MBA
Accounting
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
Video Highlights
1. Maintain strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors throughout your career; these connections can lead to future opportunities.
2. Work at larger companies to maximize networking opportunities and exposure to a wider range of professionals.
3. Early career networking significantly impacts future career trajectory; actively seek interactions and build relationships from your first roles onwards.
Transcript
What's one lesson you've learned that's proven significant in your career?
The biggest lesson I'd say is to never burn bridges. Every job you have should be focused on establishing as many relationships as you possibly can.
In an earlier question, I mentioned that working at the largest company you can is really good for your career. Being open, communicating, and interacting with as many people as you can early in your career sets the stage for more opportunities.
Every job I had after Anderson was because I knew somebody who would call me and say, "Hey, we've got this awesome opportunity for you. I loved when you worked for me. Come work with me again. Here's why this is a great job." That's how the rest of your career shapes out.
If you go to a small organization with not a lot of people, it can be harder to kickstart the number of people you interact with and have those opportunities down the road. That's why, if you're not sure exactly what you want to do with your life, try to find a big business. A very big company can provide a lot more relationships and opportunities than a small one.
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