Thomas Sanchez speaks at his graduation from the Columbia Business School. Photo courtesy of Thomas Sanchez and Leslie Albrecht.
Growing up on a farm in Missouri, Thomas Sanchez learned to be an optimist. After all, when you’re planting and harvesting corn and soybeans, you need a hopeful mindset.
This outlook, along with the practical skills he developed as a Missouri FFA member, continues to serve him today in his role as CEO and co-founder of Social Driver, a communications agency based in Washington, D.C. Social Driver has worked on digital marketing and public relations strategies for nonprofits, such as the National Farmers Union and Farm Credit Council, as well as large companies, such as Amazon and Starbucks.
Sanchez’s agricultural experiences have equipped him for career success in more ways than one. For example, tracking balance sheets and profit-and-loss statements for his FFA project prepared him for the paperwork he currently studies for his company, as well as several nonprofit boards. Furthermore, the work ethic he learned while selling corn in eighth grade to earn money for his first trip to Washington, D.C., inspired him to start a company there after college.
Looking to branch outside your comfort zone? Sanchez shares the following five tips for seeking opportunities in school, life and a career.
1. Take risks.
Whether you’re working on an FFA project or starting a new company, don’t let fear hold you back.
“One of the great things about our country is that we encourage people to take risks,” Sanchez says. “Even if those don’t work out the way you envisioned, we don’t hold that against anyone.”
Sanchez visits his alma mater, Northwest Missouri State University, where he’s served on the Foundation Board of Directors. Photo courtesy of Thomas Sanchez and Leslie Albrecht.
2. Think differently.
You don’t need to be an inventor to start a successful company. Instead, you can focus on finding a better way to do something.
“People are always looking for the next big idea,” Sanchez says. “But they should think about how to take something people already use and provide better customer service, a more trusted brand or a more efficient business model.”
3. Embrace technology.
Today, every major industry is driven by technology. Experimenting with different software can help you no matter what field you go into.
“Companies of tomorrow are going to need young people who can help guide companies about how to best use these tools,” Sanchez says.
4. Be creative.
According to Sanchez, bringing people together ensures everyone feels a sense of ownership of ideas that are presented.
“Creativity is about building a mirror so people can see themselves in the brand or mission you’re building,” he adds.
Sanchez built a vegetable garden at this farm in Fauquier County, Va. Photo courtesy of Thomas Sanchez and Leslie Albrecht.
5. Learn by doing.
Hands-on learning opportunities available through FFA can set you apart from your peers, and your ability to collaborate may serve you well in any future endeavor.
“You’re not going to be majoring in teamwork, but it’s one of the most valuable skills you’ll bring to your career,” Sanchez says.
