
1st Tuesday: 5 Things About Corie Barry
Friday, January 17, 2025
The Carlson School welcomes Corie Barry, the CEO of Best Buy, as the featured guest of the 1st Tuesday Speaker Series on February 4. Secure your seats for the next 1st Tuesday at this event registration link. Before Barry takes the stage at the McNamara Alumni Center, here are five things to know about her:
What was your first job?
My parents were self-employed artists, and our summers were spent traveling the country as they sold their artwork. I started working with them when I was 12 years old—unloading things, setting up and taking down the booths—which genuinely shaped who I am and taught me so many lessons that continue to guide me today. That’s how I learned to appreciate the value of creativity, hard work, and pursuing something that you believe can change the world.
What about Best Buy excites you?
Technology is an absolute necessity in our daily lives. It’s how we work and get things done, but it’s also how we connect and share our lives with each other. I’m continuously inspired by the role we get to play in helping people use technology to make their everyday lives a little bit better, or easier, or more meaningful.
What’s a trait you value in a leader?
A desire to never stop learning. No matter which field or role you choose to work in, the landscape around us is changing faster than ever before. In 2000, your skill set was valid for 20 years—today, the average skill set is valid for just four years. We have to be willing to admit what we don’t know, and then adapt our approach or our leadership style in order to evolve with the world around us.
What’s a lesson from school you still use today?
Careers are like the ultimate group project—you’re constantly collaborating with others, balancing different strengths and ideas, and working toward a shared goal. While my accounting knowledge laid a really solid foundation, I think being able to communicate, collaborate, and build relationships with others are what influenced my career most. And just like any group project, your journey can be unpredictable and full of surprises, but when everyone brings their unique talents, the results can be extraordinary.
What’s your advice for students pursuing careers in business?
Expect and create the highest return on your personal investment. As a matter of fact, demand it. If you’re dedicating your time, energy, and resources to something, make every minute count. Set your standards high, seek out opportunities that challenge you, and take charge of shaping the best possible experience for yourself. You deserve nothing less.