My first job wasn’t at a fabric store. But it also kind of was. Let’s back up before jumping in. I started working at a music venue at 14. It was under the table, but exciting and so. much. fun. I landed the job without any interview – funny enough, the manager of the venue rented a house from my grandma. I’m not even kidding. It’s like I knew I’d love networking at 14!
But, I don’t necessarily consider it my first real job. It actually felt more like I was just hanging out with friends whenever I was working. Well, it felt that way because that’s what actually happened. I could get my friends in for free, meet bands before they “made it” (Paramore, Jack Antonoff, Cartel, etc.). It was a sweet gig!
But, then I started working at a fabric store, where I learned (more than) a few things. And I’m super excited to share them with you, but first I have to thank my friends over at TheLadders for reaching out and inspiring this post.
5 lessons I learned at my first job
- You’ll figure out what you don’t want to do. When I started working at the store, I realized that its management and corporate support was..well…nonexistent. I love retail, but I realized I’d rather work at HQ and support the team in a different way. Use your first job as a way to find out what you don’t like – and start tuning into what you might want to do.
- A little respect goes a long way. I also saw a few assistant managers entirely disrespecting the brand. It was a bit of an eye-opener, in fact, and everyone noticed it. So really, you might not love (or even like) your first job, but be respectful – and don’t burn those bridges!
- It’s all about the people. You might not work in customer service, but you’ll always be working with people in some way, shape, or form. For me, I realized how much I loved working when my team was on their A game, and when customers were genuinely happy to be there. So, spend some time getting to know your team!
- It is what you make it. Really. You’re probably not in your dream role because hey, it’s your first job. But find ways to make it more interesting. Ask to take on new projects, find out what other teams are doing, etc. Take the time to get as much out of your role as you possibly can.
- Your skills are more applicable than you think. Say you’re working at a clothing store like American Eagle (where I also worked in college). Sure, I was only a store associate, but I made connections with people I still stay in touch with! I didn’t just put clothes away or rang people out at the register, I learned how to train new associates, participate in meetings, and lead a team. Those skills (and your own!) are going to be applicable to your future roles. But, you need to be able to communicate them!
What lessons did you learn at your first job? Are you on the search for a new role? Check out TheLadders!
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Reading this I was reminded of two things. One – my first summer job at an ice cream parlor, which basically consisted of a lot of taste testing and a LOT of singing along to Avril Lavigne. Two – while I’ve been in my current job for over 7 (!) years, I’m new to the blogging world and these tips work just as well as I start this new venture/ hustle.
Oh my gosh, that sounds like a great first summer job! And yay for being new to blogging! Isn’t it such a wonderful space full of creative people? I love it 🙂
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Love these lessons. They’re so completely true no matter where you start. I think even first jobs working retail, or waitressing, anything like that..you really do learn the same types of things wherever you are! I can definitely relate to the respect factor and just working well with people – it’s the most important!
You really do! I had a few not so glamorous jobs, but learned valuable lessons from each and every one. #worthit
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