Sunday, March 15, 2009

Put An “EXXON” It

“Which grade do I put in the car, dad?” Okay, so it wasn’t my first time putting gas in the car, but I couldn’t remember. Although there are only three choices, I didn’t want to put the wrong one in the car because I wasn’t sure if a problem would result. So, what was his response? “You know you’re not supposed to be on the phone near the pump, Jas.” Alright, that was my second mistake, but in the end I was able to fill my tank with middle grade gas and leave the gas station with no one getting hurt. The more I learn about gasoline and the processes it undergoes to get to its final stage, I am relieved to know I only have to choose which grade goes in my car. In reality, I really don’t even have to pick that because the car company and my parents tell me.

Martin Peters, Financial Services Supervisor at Exxon Mobil, helps chemical plant management manage expenses. With so many departments working together behind the scene to get that gas to our gas stations, it is vital that everything runs smoothly. As a Financial Services Supervisor, Martin uses his BlackBerry phone to help him filter out emails he doesn’t need to worry about which saves him time. He usually does this a night or in the morning before work. He also relies on his employees to only get him involved when he needs to help them. This prevents him from wasting time on matters he isn’t involved with. Another thing he likes to do is keep a lot of lists. The ability to check items off as he completes them helps him feel like he’s achieving things throughout the day. “When you keep adding to the list it doesn’t seem like works getting done. When you cross them off, it’s like a small win every time.”

This is something I can relate too. When I have a written list of all that I need to complete, I am able to focus on each item individually. After completing each one, I am able to check it off and move on. Martin’s small wins method is very helpful for those that like to see progress as they go. Upon completion, just put an “Exxon” it and move on!

3 comments:

  1. I like your post! How did you get to talk to one of the big guns at ExxonMobil? Lol, I am a petroleum Engineer so thats a big deal for me!

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  2. I will have to agree, the "small wins method" has actually been beneficial to me personally. I have a checklist next to me right now of everything I need to finish tonight, and another of what I need to complete by the end of this week. I love the analysis.

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  3. I think it is very important to be able to balance in the business world, and If you keep your sanity by putting an "Exxon" on it, then you go right ahead.

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