Howard Jonas, the founder and chairman of IDT Corp., began his entrepreneurial journey at the young age of 14, selling hot dogs in the Bronx. Today, he leads a multi-billion dollar telecommunications company listed on the New York Stock Exchange. His success, he attributes to his deep religious commitment, as explored in his book, “I’m Not the Boss, I Just Work Here.”
Jonas recalls a childhood lesson from his father, the story of Joseph in Egypt. Joseph, a Hebrew slave, started with the humble task of sweeping floors in Potiphar’s house. Unlike the other servants, Joseph was always working. One day, Potiphar, the prime minister, found Joseph diligently sweeping even after all the other servants had left. Potiphar recognized Joseph’s unwavering dedication and trustworthiness. He reasoned that if Joseph wouldn’t steal a moment of rest, he certainly wouldn’t steal from the household.
“I’ve kept this Joseph story in mind as I’ve built my company,” Jonas explains. He believes that embracing challenges is an integral part of fulfilling God’s will.
Jonas has experienced both great success and significant failures throughout his career. He emphasizes that “Success is not a reward… Sometimes it’s just a sign of having tried hard and often.” In “I’m Not the Boss, I Just Work Here,” Jonas also opens up about his past struggles with severe depression, aiming to inspire others through his resilience and reliance on his faith.