Work hard, seize opportunities, think differently, say tech CEOs to young workers t’s a long way from mowing lawns and washing windows to the CEO’s office, but today’s tech titans haven’t forgotten where they started in the working world. When Network World asked tech CEOs to talk about their first jobs, more than 30 obliged (click here to read about their experiences making licorice, cleaning hotel rooms, shoveling monkey cages, and scuba diving). They also offered advice for newcomers in the working world. Here’s what they had to say: 1. Expect criticism “It’s important to be mindful about what you say and how it’s perceived by others. But it’s also important to learn that as a public person you are always going to be judged, no matter what. … You have to be comfortable with yourself and open to criticism.” — Dave Rich, Revolution Analytics CEO (first job: football announcer). 2. Seize opportunities “Get your hands dirty and go… each job is a learning experience in life. Everyone today wants to start off as an executive. But you can’t. Take every opportunity you can, because it will help you down the road.” — George Teixeira, DataCore Software CEO (first job: hotel housekeeper). 3. Take work seriously “Show up on time. Dress the part. Listen, listen, listen. Focus on doing every job, no matter how menial, to the best of your ability. Someday when you are a CEO you will want every member of your team, down to the shop floor worker, executing with excellence and pride.” — Thad Eidman, Knoa Software CEO (first job: Toyota dealership employee). IT Jobs