Hi friends,

As many of you already know, today is my last day with Deloitte. I am leaving the firm to
pursue my interest in the crazy world of technology startups. I will be running Marketing and
Business Development for a DC-based startup company. It’s actually Human Capital related, so
if you’re interested in learning more, please feel free to email me at ryan.j.geist@gmail.com.

I’ve learned so much during my two and half years here at Deloitte. I’ve growth both personally
and professionally, and I attribute much of my growth to the amazing people that I’ve worked
with and the awesome opportunities Deloitte Human Capital has provided me. So, I thought that
instead of sending out the usual obligatory “It’s been great…” email, I’d share with you a few
life lessons I’ve learned from all of you during my time with Deloitte.

1. If you want to get rich, create multiple streams of income. This is rule number two in
building wealth (Rule #1: Save, save, save). Bob Park taught me about this when he told
me he wanted to open up carwashes all over Detroit… Two years ago, I thought he was
an idiot. Then the other day I picked up the latest issue of the New Yorker to see that
Lenny Dykstra just sold his 3 carwashes for $55 mil. Wow. Bob – you’re a genius.

2. Your ability to network effectively is the most critical determinant of success in your
career. Try to build a relationship with everyone you meet, and even more importantly
maintain these relationships throughout your career. Indeed, authentic relationships are
the only things that truly matter in life.

3. “Don’t treat others the way you want to be treated… treat others the way they want to be
treated. There is a difference.” – Marc Schweitzer, a man who leads by example and
taught me how to change my approach by always delivering his message with a smile and
a healthy dose of respect.

4. Personal branding is important both inside and outside of the firm. Your “Google
resume” is becoming more important than your paper resume. (In other words, if you
haven’t already published some articles and registered www.yourname.com (i.e.
www.ryangeist.com), I recommend that you do it tonight.

5. Don’t ever lose sight of your dreams. It’s so easy to get caught up in the grind and, let’s
admit it, the crazy “world of Deloitte” that we lose sight of the real world surrounding us.
If you have a dream, get out there and get it done. Go live the dream!

6. And finally: If you’re a dude, the only part of the wedding you need to worry about is the
bar. Make sure it’s open. And you better have scotch.

Thank you all for being awesome. Feel free to call, IM, email, snailmail, or stop by for dinner
anytime. I look forward to staying in touch and helping you succeed in your own individual
quests for world domination.

Good luck, and I’ll talk to you soon!

Most sincerely,

Ryan Geist