Experience is often valued because of the lessons prior jobs have theoretically provided us with. While hearing about those lessons isn’t a replacement for actually experiencing it, we thought it would be very helpful to create a space where sharp and generous members of the community can come together to share stories and lessons learned at prior jobs for the benefit of others.

Wize Grazette

I learned about the professional working world at my first internship. My boss at the time challenged me to “just get ‘er done” and I’m so blessed to have had that happen to me early in my career. I was so focused on following specific steps to get things done, and her stating that opened my eyes to “paths less travelled”. Read more>>

Annie Holman

Let’s talk about Yellow Flags in business—you know, those little warning signs that pop up and say, “Hey, maybe don’t ignore me, or I’ll turn into a full-blown disaster later.” Yellow flags are not a deal-breaker yet, but definitely something you should pay attention to.

In my book, there are only two types of flags: Green (everything’s great, full speed ahead!) and Red (stop immediately, do not pass Go, totally forget the $200). Read more>>

Tamara Ramon

My second job ever was at a Culver’s Restaurant. I was 16 and had an awful first experience for a job, which was also fast food. I worked at Culver’s from two years as a team member. Over those two years I learned how to be a decent employee (although I wasn’t always). When I turned 18 I moved away from my hometown. I worked at as a bather at a PetSmart and then I worked in grocery store shortly after that. In the midst of working those jobs I found out I was pregnant. Read more>>

Melissa Guitron

One of the most important lessons I learned in my career came from working at a fitness studio that, while deeply passionate about health and fitness, struggled with the business side of things. When I first started there, I was excited to be part of a community that cared so much about movement, coaching, and helping people feel their best. But over time, I started noticing cracks—trainers weren’t being paid on time, memberships were inconsistent, and financial stress seemed to overshadow the gym’s mission. Read more>>

Jackie Marchant

I was honored to work as a buyer at a fast paced big box retailer for 5 years. This job involved blood, sweat, and tears; but as we all know, hard work makes for good work. My team and I would meet with well known designers from Vera Wang and Steve Madden to create private label brands. I learned so many lessons in this position, one in particular stands out, and has enabled me to create a successful collection for my boutique. Read more>>

Jïo Alèxio

I’d say the most important lesson I learnt from my time working in a gym for a few years as a service associate and fitness trainer was understanding the balance between ambition and self-care. I went into the fitness industry, as a backup plan to be honest, with the passion to help others, but the reality of the job—constant sales pressure, client retention struggles, and emotional investment—was draining in ways I really didn’t expect at all. I’d say the experience taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of advocating for myself in a work environment. Read more>>