Last month, we shared ways to help you boost job satisfaction that, in turn, could help improve your overall well-being. Did you know that setting goals can help you feel satisfied with your job? A study by the University of Rochester found that setting specific, measurable goals can help provide a path to improving your career and achieving certain accomplishments.

At Publix, we want to help you strive to reach your goals. Maybe you’re a cashier who one day would like to be a store manager, or perhaps you’re a seafood specialist while going to school and hope to work in the real estate department at our corporate office.

So, we asked associates for the best career advice they’ve received while working at Publix. And here’s what they had to say.

Atlanta Division Vice President Kris Jonczyk shared 2 bits of advice his store manager gave him when he was a grocery clerk.

“First, give your very best, but also measure your best by the best. Don’t measure by the bottom, but by the top. Second, go where the opportunities are.”

Kris now leads the retail operations team for our Atlanta Division.

Retail Associate Relations Specialist Megan White, Charlotte, North Carolina, recalled when CEO Todd Jones visited the store she worked at as a newly promoted customer service manager.

At that time, Todd was president. After asking him for advice as a new department manager, Todd told her to “focus on 3 things: learning, flexibility and people.” She said Todd stressed the importance of continuing to learn and grow every day, being willing to help wherever she was needed and always remembering our associates are our biggest asset.

“Throughout my career, I’ve always remembered these words from Todd,” Megan said.

Grocery Replenishment Specialist Rachel Larson, #1566, Glen Allen, Virginia, like many associates, started with Publix at age 16, not knowing it would turn into her career.

“My first store manager told me that details matter, and they will always set you apart. He took the time to walk with me through the customer service department and point out the small details, the ones that make Publix special.”

Grocery Manager Antonio Carannante, #1348, South Pasadena, Florida, has received advice from dozens of Publix leaders over the past 9 years. “It has helped shape me into the leader I am, both at Publix and in my everyday life,” Antonio said.

A big piece of advice Antonio received was from his regional director. “He said to always pick up the good traits. Nobody is perfect, but if you take someone’s good habits, and avoid bad habits, you will become a more well-rounded version of yourself.”

After working with multiple leaders, Antonio credits this as the biggest tool in his toolbelt so far.

Director of Managed Care Jacque Rusch, Lakeland, Florida, attended a presentation by the leadership development department early in her Publix career.

The presenter described a career path as a “jungle gym, not a ladder.” This picture changed everything for Jacque.

“My career was no longer limited by one direction; instead, I could go anywhere,” she said. “I continue to share this advice with associates looking for their next opportunity: Do your best and be open to feedback, no matter what position you hold. Opportunity will find you at Publix.”

Customer Service Manager Julia Jacobs, #505, Duluth, Georgia, has had managers who showed through their words and actions that they were invested in helping her grow her career at Publix.

“As a customer service associate, my store manager taught me to be a self-starter. She told me that it’s my destiny, nobody else’s.”

Julia learned that to be a Publix leader, she had to be eager to learn each day.

“I had to push myself out of my comfort zone. I became a customer service team leader and, a year later, an assistant customer service manager. Two years after that, I became a customer service manager. I repeat to myself each day — it’s my destiny, nobody else’s,” Julia said. “I can’t thank my store manager enough for the words she left me with.”

Director of Retail Pharmacy Operations Kathy Leonard, Lakeland, Florida, follows the advice Mr. George shared along the way: “Be there.”

“I always try to follow the advice and guidance of people I admire and aspire to be like,” Kathy said, “When we are present and committed to people and purpose, and aligned with an organization that is committed to the same — anything is possible.”

Store Manager Marc Porten, #1537, Gulf Breeze, Florida, shared how he’s heard a lot of great advice over the years he’s worked at Publix. One piece of advice that stood out to him was to put your associates 1st.

“Publix is dedicated to the dignity, value and employment security of our associates,” Marc said. “By taking the time to know your co-workers and understand their individual personalities, goals and work styles, you can develop better strategies for management and establish an environment where they feel respected, heard and cared for.”

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Theron Sharp Jr., Atlanta, started with Publix at the wastewater treatment plant in 1995. There, Theron’s manager gave him the best piece of advice he’s received.

“My manager told me to run the wastewater plant as if it’s my own business,” Theron said. “Those simple words meant so much to me and even now, as I operate this plant. Because of his advice, I still hold firm to what he told me. Whether it’s a home, car or career, it’s important to take ownership over something we love if we want it to last.”

Central Pharmacy Associate Business Systems Analyst Jacquelyn Valderrama, Lakeland, Florida, received the best career growth advice from her senior manager.

“He told me to be patient and my time would come,” Jacquelyn said. “This taught me to never feel defeated.”

Jacquelyn realized how determined she was and how having patience was the key to many great outcomes. “I now encourage everyone to stay focused and determined and to never give up because your time will come.”