Working at McDonald’s

In response to “Economics at Clinton’s Hangout,” Dec. 16:

The story does a disservice to thousands of McDonald’s employees--particularly those of us who started our careers in the restaurants.

For the record, McDonald’s is widely known for its commitment to promoting from within. More than half of the middle and senior managers in our company-owned restaurants started their careers at McDonald’s in entry-level restaurant positions. In all likelihood, this number is even higher among our franchised operations.

Nearly 50% of McDonald’s franchisees started as employees in the restaurants. They are now owners of successful businesses in their respective communities, each creating jobs and unique opportunities for an average of 60 area residents.

McDonald’s is a company recognized as a premier place for minorities to establish careers by both Black Enterprise and Hispanic magazines.

A balanced story would have given recognition to the career advancement opportunities our restaurants offer. Countless former full- and part-time crew members now manage and own our restaurants, train new employees in foreign countries, spearhead our advertising campaigns--you name it. In fact, the owner of the restaurant referenced in your story started as a McDonald’s employee. Choosing to disregard his fine reputation for developing his employees biases the story.

Many of the nation’s experts on employment and job training say the role of a business such as ours is integral in the American work force. Particularly for the first-time employee and others with few marketable skills, a McDonald’s work experience offers an excellent opportunity to learn or enhance basic skills. We stress time management, teamwork, self-discipline, punctuality and high work standards--all of which are critical attributes for success whether an employee stays with us or goes on to another career.

ED RENSI

President, McDonald’s

Oak Brook, Ill.