Our Connor Group associates are gritty, committed, and have a strong work ethic. These common traits set our people apart and allow us to achieve impossible goals. And quite often, our associates began learning valuable lessons and sharpening their work skills at a young age.
We recently asked high-achieving associates to share their very first job with Loop. Our “My first job” series continues in Dallas with lead sales associate Paris Crockett.
What was your first job, and how did you earn the position?
My first job was as a party host at Chuck E. Cheese. I earned the job by being the most energetic, hardworking, and dependable junior in high school. I had a full resume for my first minimum-wage job and came prepared like I was interviewing for an executive position.
What key skills do you use today that you learned from doing it?
Chuck E. Cheese taught me tenacity, problem-solving, empathy, grit, communication, resourcefulness, the importance of a positive attitude and situational awareness. I use all these skills daily in every aspect of my personal and work life. I effectively communicate and relate to all types of people and anticipate their wants and needs. I keep a smile on my face whether I’m cleaning sky tubes, dressed as Chuck E., or sparkling apartments in the middle of the Texas summer to ensure 8.5 move-ins.
What did the position teach you about the importance of work ethic, commitment, etc.?
It wasn’t easy to juggle a part-time job, tennis practice, honor society, and AP classes. I made $8 an hour and worked hard to buy my first car. Every day was different, so you couldn’t just come in and be on autopilot. You had to ensure each kid had a memorable birthday and the parents were happy too. Time management and leadership skills helped keep each party running on time. And if you were at the door, you were responsible for making sure every child left with the correct adult.
Did you love it, or hate it? If you had to, could you see yourself doing this job today?
I loved my position as a party host. It was better than working the register, salad bar, or being stuck in the kitchen. I’ve always enjoyed interacting with people, so naturally, I gravitated to a bartending job after being a party host and loved that as well. I couldn’t be a party host today, though. It takes a young person with good knees to scream and dance for eight hours a day.
How does the work compare to what you do today at TCG?
It is easy to see how working for Chuck E. Cheese has been useful in my lead sales role at TCG. Being a relator, great listener, and problem solver are necessary to find future residents their perfect home. Tenacity, resourcefulness, communication, empathy, and grit help me keep them here by providing great customer service. They trust I will make sure their home always feels like home and that they are taken care of.
What’s the best piece of advice you received on the job?
The best advice I received was from a supervisor/lead named Robert. “Just stay positive and don’t do anything half a**. If you’re having a good time, they’re having a good time. The parents can tell when you’re working hard and trying your best. If you start acting stressed, they will start feeling stressed. Confidence goes a long way, even if you’re messing up. They won’t know it.”