I was checking out of a Publix grocery store. I looked at the cashier's nametag as she was scanning my BOGOs.

 "Thanks, Mary," I said cheerfully.

 She handed me my receipt, said I saved $25.56, and smiled.

 "You're welcome. But my name is actually Margaret."

 Oh No!

• I had read it wrong

• I was in a hurry

• I felt embarrassed

ALDI is one of the most cost-effective grocery chains in the U.S., consistently ranking among the cheapest options for a standard basket of goods. To save money, ALDI requires customers to insert a quarter into the shopping cart rack to release a cart.  You get your quarter back when you return the grocery cart.

 Well, I was on my way into ALDI when I dropped my quarter. 

Welcome!  It is a pleasure to spend a few minutes with you as you begin your first day with our company.

On my first day nearly 30 years ago, I remember being excited, nervous, and completely unsure of myself. I didn't have the right uniform. I didn't know where to park. I didn't know anyone. Maybe that's how some of you feel today. If it is, that's perfectly normal.

Since my first day, I've had opportunities I never imagined, worked with incredible people, and learned from outstanding leaders. But I'm still excited, I still get nervous, and I still make mistakes.

What I've learned is that success isn't about being perfect. It's about committing yourself to a process built around three questions: What? How? Why?

First, know what your job is. Second, know how to do it—with professionalism, teamwork, respect, and excellence. Our guests may forget what we did, but they'll always remember how we made them feel.