Forget about becoming the quickest or most intelligent learner. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy feels that a cheerful mindset is essential for early career success. Jassy, who took over as CEO of Amazon in 2021, gave this advise during a recent interview with Ryan Roslansky, CEO of Microsoft-owned LinkedIn.
“A surprisingly large part of your success, especially in your 20s, comes down to attitude,” said the 56-year-old CEO. However, it goes beyond simply being happy, is what he further explains. Being a team player, completing deadlines, and exhibiting a “can-do” mentality are all indicators of a positive mindset, Amazon CEO Jassy states.
Further in the interview, Amazon CEO Jassy proposes asking yourself these questions to better understand your attitude. First, Am I willing to work hard? Second, Am I an optimist instead of a complainer? Third, Do I honour my promises? And fourth, will I be able to collaborate effectively?
These may appear easy, Amazon CEO Jassy admits, but they are frequently underestimated. “It’s surprising how rare a great attitude can be,” he said. “And it makes a big difference,” he remarked.
Focusing on the good aspects of the job is important, Amazon CEO Jassy said, recalling, “I just figured if it didn’t work out for Jeff or me after a few months, I could always try something else, but if it did, I hadn’t heard of another job like this. And it was an amazing experience.”
Jassy joined Amazon as a marketing manager in 1997 when he was only 29. After five years, he was given an unusual opportunity to become Jeff Bezos’ first “shadow” advisor. This position entailed attending all of the CEO’s meetings.
While several colleagues cautioned him against it, Jassy stated that he chose to focus on the positives. He regarded it as an opportunity to enhance his leadership abilities. And it was truly exceptional, what he explained.
It is significant to accept critiques of Amazon’s leadership, notably regarding warehouse worker treatment during the pandemic and an allegedly hostile work environment, Jassy stated towards the end of the interview. He has conceded that there is space for improvement. He noted that having a happy attitude builds stronger working relationships regardless of the career stage.
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