Jefferies CEO Rich Handler is out with his annual list of suggestions for how to succeed at the firm in particular and life in general. 

“What You Need to Know as a Summer Intern” is a list of 20 recommendations for how to get the most out of a few months working at Jefferies, a New York investment bank. 

The advice — ostensibly for the 361 college students joining as interns — is in fact applicable to anyone starting out in their career and probably even most people at any age. 

Handler has been posting a version of the list for almost a decade. The suggestions and length vary – some years there were 10 or 15 points — but the tenor and themes have been consistent. 

Handler puts a strong emphasis on building long-term relationships, learning as much and as widely as possible and acting with integrity at all times. He also reminds them to have fun. 

I’m a fan of these kinds of insights and wish more CEOs would do them and post them publicly as Handler does. (His preferred platform is Instagram where he has 53,000 followers.) 

My favorite thing Handler does on social media is randomly invite a small group of employees who respond quickly to join him for an impromptu dinner.  

Handler is probably the most visible Wall Street CEO on social media. He’s said in interviews that it’s helped him attract talent and better connect with employees, especially the juniors. 

It doesn’t insulate him from criticism, with some ex-employees arguing that the firm’s culture can be toxic and doesn’t always match the “mentoring” hype. 

I think that misses the point. People and institutions always disappoint in some way. I give him credit for the outreach and authenticity and expect we’ll to see more CEOs posting in coming years. 

Here’s a link to the full essay. But since it’s 3,000 words, here’s my ChatGPT summary: 

  1. Build Relationships with Full-Time Team – Be self-aware, empathetic, and communicate well.
  2. Connect with Other Interns – Collaborate; don’t view peers as competitors.
  3. Adapt to the Environment – Every summer is unique; stay flexible and aware of big-picture changes.
  4. Learn the Entire Firm – Understand all areas, not just your department; network respectfully.
  5. Act Like It’s Your Career – Treat the internship as your full-time job.
  6. Understand the Assignment – Clarify expectations and ask questions early.
  7. Value Client Time – Treat clients with respect and confidentiality.
  8. Stay Current – Keep up with economic and world news.
  9. Assess Fit – Reflect if this career is right for you.
  10. Choose Integrity – Prioritize honesty and reputation.
  11. Think, Don’t Just Do – Understand the “why” behind tasks.
  12. Maintain Balance – Avoid unnecessary “face time”; balance work and life.
  13. Ask Questions – No stupid questions, but be mindful of timing.
  14. Respect the Numbers – Real impact on real people.
  15. Have Fun – Enjoy yourself and show your personality.
  16. Pay It Forward – Help others enter the field.
  17. Lead with Humility and Confidence – Balance both qualities.
  18. Be Mature – Act professionally; this isn’t college.
  19. Plan for Summer’s End – Reward yourself before school resumes.
  20. Keep Perspective – Give your best, regardless of outcome.