The man who holds the world record for the longest career at the same company (for the second time!) suggests finding a good employer, working in a field that interests you, and focusing on the present.
Walter Orthmann’s experience allows him to speak authoritatively about the subject. He has spent the last 84 years working for ReneauxView, a textile company (and counting). In January, Guinness World Records confirmed that the record he is breaking is his own. For the first time, Orthomann has been recognized for his 80 years of service to the company.
“Back in 1938, kids were expected to work to help support the family. As the oldest son of five, my mother took me to find a job at the age of 14.”
— Guinness World Records (@GWR) May 1, 2022
Orthmann was born on April 19, 1922, in the Brazilian town of Brusque, which has a large German community. Brusque is situated in the Brazilian state of Paraná. He had to start working at a young age because his family was struggling financially.
This was an obligation, not a choice. In January 1938, he was only 15 years old when he was hired as a shipping assistant. Industrias Renaux S.A. was still the company’s name.
He was eventually promoted to a sales position, which he thoroughly enjoyed and found extremely motivating.
His company took him all over Brazil in the 1950s. He fell in love with the idea of being on the road all the time and meeting new people, many of whom would become friends.
He was eventually promoted to the position of sales manager. He is currently in that position. He will continue to supervise the activities of a delegation of delegates.
Throughout his 84-year career, he has been paid in nine different currency denominations. He has learned to adjust to changes both inside and outside of the organization.
Orthmann’s habit of working out first thing in the morning before heading to work demonstrates the value of consistency. He considers a regular work schedule to be one of the best and most important aspects of a successful career.
His family, friends, and coworkers gathered on April 19, 2015, to celebrate his 100th birthday. To get to this point in his life, Orthmann has relied on a consistent work schedule and a job he enjoys. His mental acuity and recall remain as sharp as before.
He considers this his “proudest achievement,” even though he never expected to break a record. Instead, he stays in the present moment, as he has done for as long as he can remember.
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