In a recent LinkedIn post, Blackstone President and COO Jon Gray told new analysts they should not “kiss up to the bosses” or “sharp elbow” their peers to advance.

“Most of you went to elite universities. You did really well, you were in the top of yoru class. You are people who are prosperous by nature and hardworking,” Gray acknowledged in a video posted to his LinkedIn account. “But when I look around at the people who truly succeeded at Blackstone, it’s not the ‘good enough’ crowd, right? It’s the people who are like, ‘I’m gonna make sure I get this absolutely right.'”

Gray said those who rise the furthest at Blackstone have the capacity to work well with others and “innovate to make the firm a better place.”

“The mistake people make is they’re like, ‘I’m going to really kiss up to the bosses, and I’m going to be sharp-elbowed with the people side by side and the people at the bottom,'” Gray said.

He urged analysts instead to “be as nice to the intern as you are to the CEO.” Gray emphasized the importance of genuine effort and a commitment to excellence. He believes that dedication to getting things “absolutely right” and a collaborative spirit are far more valuable than simply possessing a prestigious degree.

Key Takeaways

• work Ethic Matters: Elite degrees open doors,but a strong work ethic and dedication to quality are crucial for long-term success.
• Collaboration Over Competition: Avoid cutthroat tactics and prioritize building positive relationships with colleagues at all levels.
• Kindness is Key: Treat everyone with respect, irrespective of their position within the company.
• Focus on excellence: Strive to deliver exceptional work and ensure things are done “absolutely right.”
• Innovation is Valued: Contribute to making the firm better through innovative ideas and a proactive approach.