Jay Hinson, Senior VP of Restaurant Kitchen Operations at The Cheesecake Factory, shares the three questions that helped him earn 7 promotions over 28 years. His journey from a line cook to a top executive is a masterclass in curiosity, adaptability, and proactive leadership.
The 3 Questions That Shaped My Career
1. "How is today?" This question helped Hinson understand daily team performance and opened the door for honest conversations and feedback. It showed his bosses he cared about more than just his own responsibilities.
2. "How can I be better?" Hinson constantly sought direct feedback on weak areas—whether it was food quality, cleanliness, or leadership. He emphasizes that feedback is necessary for growth, even when it's hard to hear.
3. "What can I do to make your job easier?" Instead of focusing solely on his own performance, Hinson focused on reducing problems for his superiors. This meant communicating more, solving issues before they escalated, and becoming so dependable that his boss didn't have to worry about his restaurant.
The Power of Curiosity and Adaptability
Hinson started at The Cheesecake Factory as a line cook without knowing what the company was. He took promotions one at a time, always studying the next role. He paid attention to how his bosses handled pressure, spoke to people, and adjusted their leadership styles across different restaurants.
Why He Stayed 28 Years
Hinson believes the company rewards people who want to grow. Seeing line cooks become leaders made advancement feel possible. He also connected deeply with the company culture, feeling cared for as a person, not just trained as an employee.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
- Ask questions early
- Understand the expectations of the role
- Look for a company that promotes from within
- Pay attention to the people doing the job you want next
Hinson's story proves that curiosity and a focus on making others successful can lead to extraordinary career growth—even within a single company.
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