# PwC US CEO Shares Career Advice He Gave His Kids

Curiosity and effort are key to success, he says

- **Source:** [Fast Company](https://www.fastcompany.com)
- **Published:** 2026-08-03
- **Topic:** [Leadership](https://brifing.si/c/leadership)
- **Original article:** <https://www.fastcompany.com/91584403/pwcs-us-ceo-on-the-career-advice-he-gave-to-his-kids>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/d7ba9f9b-53f1-410a-9db8-a4d9ecc9c0e5

## The CEO's Career Philosophy

Paul Griggs, PwC's US CEO, summarizes the secret to career success with the phrase 'you get what you put in.' In an interview with Business Insider, he emphasized this approach means 'saying yes,' working when no one's watching, and staying curious. Griggs believes these elements are critical for long-term professional achievement.

## His Children's Career Choices

Griggs shared that two of his college-aged children are considering careers in accounting. Despite PwC's plans to reduce hiring of consultants and accountants, he supports their dreams. The CEO maintains that opportunities will exist for those with the right skills, even in a contracting industry.

## Trends in the Accounting Sector

The Big Four audit firms, including PwC, have slowed hiring in 2023 due to economic uncertainties. However, experts predict continued demand for professionals in areas like digital transformation and sustainability reporting. The industry is evolving toward more strategic roles amid rising automation.

## Leadership Through Role Modeling

Griggs' support for his children demonstrates how professional leaders can guide family members. The CEO highlights the importance of sharing personal experiences to inspire younger generations. This approach creates impact beyond corporate social responsibilities.

## Future Workplace Skills

The curiosity and effort Griggs emphasizes are seen as keys to thriving in a rapidly changing business world. McKinsey research shows 50% of the workforce will need new skills by 2025. Adaptability and continuous learning have become fundamental requirements.

## Leadership in Work-Life Balance

PwC's CEO stresses the importance of balancing professional success with family life. His support for his children's career decisions shows leaders need consistency in their personal lives too. This attitude presents a leadership model that enhances employee engagement.

## Global Hiring Trends

Hiring in professional services dropped 18% in the first half of 2023. Yet Deloitte analysis shows growing demand for experts in AI and data analytics. Companies continue investing in critical skills even during economic contractions.

## Resilience in Career Journeys

Griggs' advice underscores sticking to career goals even during uncertain times. The World Economic Forum predicts 97 million new roles will emerge by 2025. For professionals equipped with the right skills, opportunities will persist under any circumstances.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.fastcompany.com/91584403/pwcs-us-ceo-on-the-career-advice-he-gave-to-his-kids — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
