Former and current McDonald’s employees are being celebrated with a series of exclusive events called “Employees Only.” The fast-food chain, recognizing that 1 in 8 Americans have worked at one of its stores, has established the “1 in 8” club, providing a platform for members to connect with each other. The chain has initiated these events to honor its past and present crew members, starting with a pop-up event in Chicago that featured former McDonald’s employees sharing their career journeys and the impact working at McDonald’s had on their success.
The first event, held in Chicago, included a star-studded lineup of former McDonald’s employees who spoke at a “Fryside Chat” panel about their experiences. Comedian Chris Redd, known for his work on “Saturday Night Live,” spoke about how his time at McDonald’s instilled in him the work ethic needed for his comedy career. Other notable attendees included James Beard award-winning chef Kwame Onwuachi and actress Clarissa Molina, who attributed their success in their respective fields to the skills they gained while working at McDonald’s. The event also featured professional headshots, a historic uniform exhibit, a skills challenge, and exclusive merchandise.
The title, Employees Only, is a reference to the doors seen in McDonald’s restaurants and other establishments that mark off-limits areas for customers. McDonald’s aims to highlight the unique experiences and skills gained behind these doors, emphasizing the importance of the opportunities and skills learned while working for the Golden Arches. A survey conducted by McDonald’s found that a large percentage of past and present crew members credit the chain with teaching them key skills such as communication, collaboration, dependability, and leadership, with nearly half stating that their job at McDonald’s created opportunities they wouldn’t have had otherwise.
The Employees Only event series is part of McDonald’s ongoing commitment to connecting past and present crew members and providing them with exclusive opportunities. These events offer a chance for employees to learn from notable alumni who have gone on to make an impact in various industries, further emphasizing the benefits of being part of the 1 in 8 club. The series will continue to expand to more cities across the country in the coming months, providing crew members with additional opportunities to connect with each other, share their experiences, and continue to grow and develop their skills.
Overall, Employees Only serves as a platform for celebrating the contributions and achievements of past and present McDonald’s employees. The event series highlights the impact that working at McDonald’s has had on individuals’ career paths and success in various industries. By providing a space for connection, mentorship, and skill development, McDonald’s is reinforcing its commitment to its employees and the valuable skills learned through their experiences at the chain. The events also serve as a reminder of the shared experiences and opportunities that working at McDonald’s can provide, inspiring current and former crew members to continue to pursue their goals and aspirations.
