With more than 17 years and numerous relocations under his belt, Ethan knows what it takes take have a successful Enterprise career.
After starting in New York, where he was a Branch Manager at two Long Island locations and ran three different areas as Area Rental Manager, he worked his way up to Regional Rental Manager in Washington, D.C. Mobility remained the name of the game, as he came to St. Louis as Assistant Vice President of Rental for the South Central region before heading to North Carolina as Regional Vice President.
In late 2017 Ethan crossed the border to work as the Vice President/General Manager in Ottawa.
Here’s the advice he’d give his younger self:
On building a career
Find as many mentors as you can. When I first started my career, I wish I fully understood the value of a mentor. You will lean on different mentors for different things, but the most important trait to have in a mentor is honesty. I have been lucky to work with and learn from some of the best leaders in the company, and it helped shaped who I am today.
Always set short- and long-term goals for yourself. When you hit one, set another, even tougher goal. It is crucial to always focus on what you set out to achieve.
When it comes to relocation for promotions, make sure you treat your significant other as a true partner in your career. Talk to them about your goals and involve them in decisions. Having their support will be crucial to your success.
Do not be afraid of different challenges. If you have the opportunity to separate yourself with a unique opportunity in your career, do it. It may be what sets you apart from your peers.
Compete every day to keep yourself in a position to be promoted. You never know when an opportunity will present itself.
On being a leader
It is ALL about your team. Your ability to develop your employees is paramount to your sustained success. Seeing those you have trained and developed succeed are some of the best moments you will have in your career.
Always find the time for your team’s development. There is nothing more important.
Be fair and consistent. Your team always needs to know what is important to you and your expectations.
On operations
Do not over complicate your plans. Some of the best plans are simple. Can your team execute them on a consistent basis? Do they believe the plans will work? When those answers are, “Yes!” consistent performance will follow.
