Why do you choose the company you work for?

Recently in an employee meeting I was asked why I chose John Deere, and what kept me coming back for 35 years. Below was my response.

We carry a John Deere badge as employees. It serves a purpose as it gets us into a facility. However, that badge is a lot more to me than just a way to get into a facility.

That badge gets me into a different life.

The badge introduces me to different people all over the world. The badge associates me with one of the most powerful brands on the planet.The badge enables me to have a successful career, and in some respects, a fulfilling life, because of my relationship with John Deere.

The badge says I am part of a legacy of genuine value, trust, and commitment going back nearly 200 years. The badge says I am on that team now and I'm helping take this company into the future.

The badge is a daily reminder for me that I am affiliated with a global leader, and I have a responsibility, and an obligation, every day, to step up to that standard. I use that badge as a reminder that I need to bring my very best to my job, every day.

There are many good companies around the world, but over the last 35 years, I have not met another company that matches the opportunity I see in John Deere. The mission of being linked to the land, providing genuine value, feeding, building, fueling, and clothing a growing world. We truly Run so Life can Leap Forward.

Every time I look at my badge, and I check into a John Deere Facility, I'm reminded of my opportunity at John Deere, and the special responsibility I have as an employee of the company.  

I believe John Deere is a special company. I've found no better opportunity for me to grow as a person. I've found no better opportunity for me to contribute my talents. I've found no better opportunity for me to advance my purpose on earth.

I keep my badge very dear to me. It’s not just a badge. It’s a passport to a new life, and a way for me to grow as an individual.

Why do you choose the company you are at? Regardless of where you work, I believe it's important to pour your time and talent fully into your organization, to commit fully, and create as much value as you can during your career. Would love to hear from you and what your story is.

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