The workplace fable of the Impatient Graduate Trainee and the elusive promotion

The Impatient Graduate Trainee was frustrated and annoyed to be the last of his peer group to be promoted. His moaning reached the ears of the managing director, who called him to his office.

“I  think I have done a far better job than some of those promoted ahead of me,” complained the Impatient Graduate Trainee. “They are having much better careers than me.”

The managing director asked the Impatient Graduate Trainee what job he aspired to do.

“I want to be the CEO and I want to get there quickly,” the Impatient Graduate Trainee said confidently.

“Well the average tenure of a CEO is five years, so how old do you want to be when you start your five years?” the managing director asked.

This question made the Impatient Graduate trainee pause to think for a while.

“When I am about 45 I suppose,” he said at last.

“So if you become a CEO when you are 45, will you judge the next 23 years between now and then a failure?” the managing director pressed. “Rather than be in such a mad rush, you should use the time to learn and enjoy the experience. At each step be the best you can be. Cream always rises to the top!”

Moral of the tale: Be patient. A career is judged over a lifetime.

Mark Price is author of Workplace Fables: 147 True Life Stories (£10.99, Stour Publishing). To order your copy for £8.99 plus p&p, call 0844 871 1514 or visit books.telegraph.co.uk

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