Lessons Learned from My First Jobs and Their Impact on My Career

My journey through life has been shaped by various jobs, each carrying its own set of valuable lessons. In this article, I will share three significant experiences from my first jobs: a Combat Medic in the Army, a Trainee Electrician, and a Technical Co-founder of a small ISP. These experiences have contributed to my personal and professional growth, leaving a lasting impact on my life.

Combat Medic in the Army: Decision Making and Critical Thinking

1978, 17 years old, UK GCE 'O' level exam break.

One of the most impactful roles I ever held was as a Combat Medic in the Army. This job required me to work under extreme stress, observe situational changes, and make rapid decisions. These skills have stayed with me and continue to be essential in my current career as an SEO expert. Each day, I encounter new challenges that require strategic thinking and quick decision-making. The military environment taught me the importance of being prepared, maintaining composure, and adhering to strict protocols.

Trainee Electrician: Observing and Analyzing

1978, 17 years old, working for Mr. Chan’s company.

My second job was as a Trainee Electrician in a shop run by Mr. Chan, an electrical engineer. This experience was invaluable for several reasons. Firstly, I learned the importance of education and hard work. Mr. Chan had achieved all he had through his work ethic and qualifications, and he encouraged his employees to better themselves. Secondly, I observed how an entrepreneur starts from scratch, building a successful business based on hard work and dedication. This lesson has always stayed with me and inspired me to strive for success in my own right.

Technical Co-founder of a Small ISP: Networking and Trust

Co-founder of a small Internet Service Provider (ISP).

My third and final significant job was as a co-founder of a small Internet Service Provider (ISP). This experience taught me about networking, system administration, and the pitfalls of trusting business partners. Developing and maintaining relationships with various stakeholders in the tech industry is crucial, and the behind-the-scenes work of managing networks and systems is both challenging and rewarding. This job also highlighted the importance of being cautious and thorough when dealing with business partners, ensuring that all agreements are carefully documented and monitored.

Additional Lessons and Reflections

One of the most memorable aspects of my first job as a Trainee Electrician was the tedious and monotonous nature of the work. I learned that I did not enjoy this type of task and realized the importance of seeking a more satisfying career. This realization prompted me to pursue further education, leading to a degree and eventually a career in the tech industry. Looking back, I am grateful for the experience, as it taught me the value of resilience and adaptability.

Another significant lesson emerged from my time as a Secretary at a laundry and dry cleaner. The repetitive nature of the work, including posting laundry tickets and mailing pay envelopes, highlighted the importance of seeking more engaging and fulfilling employment opportunities. This experience taught me to be proactive in my career pursuits and not be content with just any job.

Both of these jobs taught me the value of diverse experiences and the importance of leveraging each new role to grow both personally and professionally. The insights and lessons from these early jobs have deeply influenced my approach to work and have been instrumental in shaping my career path.

In conclusion, my first jobs have left an indelible mark on my career. They have provided me with critical life skills such as decision-making, networking, and hard work. These experiences have not only prepared me for my current role as a SEO expert but have also taught me the value of continuous learning and personal growth.