The beginning of my vocational story

Work has long been a connecting point between me and others. I’ve enjoyed sharing experiences with professionals who are vulnerable about their wins and their losses. I recently blogged about my view of work and how we have transitioned from a vocational model to an occupational point of view. This recognition of a shifting reality has allowed me to better appreciate my journey while encouraging others along the way. That is why I’m starting a series on my vocational story and what I’ve learned from my experiences.

First, I’ll take you back to the beginning…

The gift

I grew up with a passion for storytelling and early on saw it as a clearly defined path for my professional future. In Portugal, students make tough decisions at a very young age. By the time you enter high school, you have already chosen a field of study which sets the course for a specific work area. For many this can be hard. It is supposed to build confidence and provide focus but it can also be challenging. I remember friends whose parents envisioned them in a specific, prominent role. Thankfully for me, my parents never pressured me to choose one direction over another. Looking back, that was a gift that I will forever be grateful for.

My first job

I followed my passion for communications through college and successfully landed a job with Hill & Knowlton, a leading PR firm with an office in Portugal. To get hired straight out of college in a shrinking economy was in itself an accomplishment. Being able to apply my passion and gifts early on was an incredible blessing. By the time I was 21 I was a communications consultant providing strategic guidance to leading international companies.

My first job was a dream job. I was doing what I loved the most. I gained experience in key areas such as media relations, vendor partnerships and event management. While I grew in my understanding of how to position clients as industry leaders, the most impactful lessons came in the most simple of moments. These memories have stuck with me and prepared me as a professional.

As part of this series I will also share details on lessons that I have carried with me. In my next post I will share details on the importance of:

• always being on time
• going the extra mile

Join the conversation and share about your vocational story. When did you find your passion? What was your first job?