Great American Dream

So much has been said and written about the Great American Dream. In many cases, the headlines and corporate stories have become the American Nightmare.

This past weekend I felt that I was experiencing the very essence of the American Dream. The occasion was our Jack Nadel International’s annual celebration of the “Golden Tigers”. We started 40 years ago to recognize the accomplishments of our top people. Over the years it has produced a feeling of pride and friendship.

All immigrants that have come to this country have arrived with the promise of freedom and opportunity. When my parents came over through Ellis Island from Eastern Europe, I do believe they literally expected to find gold in the streets. What they did find was much more valuable - they had arrived in a land of equal opportunity.

The American business opportunity allowed me to establish a tiny business 54 years ago that has blossomed into 24 offices and the dominant position in advertising and sales promotion - promotional products. Last weekend, this year’s Super Tigers and Mega Tigers of Jack Nadel International came together in the magnificent Monterrey Peninsula to share three days of friendship and prosperity. Our simple business 54 years ago was selling advertising specialties and corporate gifts. Today, it is a sophisticated enterprise with an infrastructure of the latest technology from interactive computer programs to sophisticated websites to online catalogues and company stores. Jack Nadel International continues to grow and prosper but the major ingredient is the feeling of family and relationship.

In an era of corporate greed, our business community has been shocked by one story after another from Enron to government corruption. We have proven that talented people of good will can come together in a spirit of cooperation and mutual admiration and can indeed succeed without lying, cheating or stealing.

I have had the pleasure of giving many business classes in universities. The one common question from the students is "What is hot today and what kind of business should I go into?" My response is always the same. First determine what you really love to do and feel you can do well. The economic gains will automatically follow. Each individual in our company has full opportunity to pursue his or her passion. Our most valuable asset is the intimate friendship of hundreds of people that make up our corporate family.

Nice guys do not have to finish last. It is not necessary to destroy someone else for you to be successful. Our 130 Account Executives around the world are in constant communication with each other seeking new and better ideas for their clients. They communicate endlessly on the Internet to take advantage of the experience and creativity that is in evidence throughout the corporation.

This past weekend, in a party atmosphere, we broke bread, shared wine and celebrated our version of the American Dream.

HomeSite Map

Communication is inspiration! Share your thoughts below.