Crossroads: A Graduation Speech

This commencement speech, delivered at Cal Poly Pomona, focuses on the concept of **crossroads** in life. It encourages graduates to embrace the choices they face, recognizing that they are a privilege, not a burden. The speaker shares eight tips for navigating these **crossroads** and achieving career success.

Tip 1: Networks

The speaker emphasizes the importance of building strong networks. Surrounding yourself with talented individuals accelerates learning and creates opportunities. These networks extend beyond colleagues and include friends, mentors, and individuals further along in their career paths.

• Friendships formed at Cal Poly Pomona can last a lifetime.
• Seek out "tribes" – groups of people who share similar values and goals.

Tip 2: The Pull Model

Success rarely comes from being "pushed" into opportunities. Instead, it's about being "pulled" in by those seeking talented individuals. The speaker advocates for actively building a network outside your company through coffee meetings and networking events. This strategy increases your visibility and allows others to recognize your potential.

• Meet people 5 years ahead of you in their career paths.
• Nurture relationships over time, leading to opportunities and support.

Tip 3: Ask, Don't Hesitate

Knowing people is not enough. You must be willing to ask for what you want. The speaker recounts a personal anecdote where he relentlessly pursued a transfer to France, demonstrating that boldness and direct communication can lead to unexpected opportunities. He highlights the importance of being proactive and not assuming others will automatically see your potential.

• Be prepared to express your goals clearly and assertively.
• Don't be afraid to approach decision-makers directly.

Tip 4: Beg Forgiveness, Not Permission

Sometimes, the most compelling opportunities arise from taking calculated risks. The speaker shares how he took a chance by joining a project in Tokyo without official approval. This bold move ultimately led to a fulfilling career in Japan. He encourages graduates to identify situations where calculated risks can lead to greater rewards.

• Recognize when rules are worth breaking.
• Be prepared to take ownership of your actions.

Tip 5: Learn, Then Earn

The speaker emphasizes the importance of prioritizing learning and skill development in early career stages. Graduates should focus on acquiring valuable skills that will lay a solid foundation for future success. Once they have mastered these skills, they can transition to roles that prioritize earning potential.

• Prioritize learning and skill development over high salaries.
• Consider opportunities that offer valuable experience and growth potential.

Tip 6: Be Politely Persistent

Follow-through is essential for building relationships and achieving success. The speaker advises graduates to be proactive in maintaining connections, even if it means making the first move. He emphasizes the importance of sending follow-up emails, making phone calls, and proactively scheduling subsequent meetings.

• Don't be afraid to be proactive and reach out to people you've met.
• Maintain communication with grace and humility.

Tip 7: Get Your Foot in the Door

Don't be afraid to seize opportunities even when there is uncertainty or perceived barriers. The speaker recounts how he convinced a venture capital firm to hire him before they had the funds to do so, demonstrating that sometimes being proactive can be the key to success.

• Be willing to take risks and offer creative solutions.
• Demonstrate your value through hard work and dedication.

Tip 8: Build a Personal Brand

In a crowded world, it's crucial to differentiate yourself. Develop a unique voice and become known for something. This can be through expertise in a particular area, innovative ideas, or even a strong online presence. The speaker uses the example of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to highlight how building a strong personal brand can lead to increased influence and impact.

• Identify your strengths and passions.
• Develop a unique perspective and voice.
• Build an online presence that showcases your expertise and personality.

Crossroads: Embrace the Choices

The speaker concludes by urging graduates to embrace the choices they face, remembering that these **crossroads** represent a privilege they owe to the hard work of generations past. They should take risks, explore new experiences, and live without regret. These choices will shape their paths and create a legacy for future generations.

• Take risks and don't be afraid to explore new opportunities.
• Embrace your choices and live without regret.
• Remember that your opportunities are a product of the hard work of those who came before you.