I recently visited a friend that I hadn’t seen since college.
When we were in school, she was a Theology major, and I was an Accounting major. As far as majors and the types of work/further education we’d be pursuing with those degrees, we were pretty much on opposite ends of the spectrum.
But now, 8 years later, we’ve ended up in almost the same spot.
I have built a business as a writer and storyteller, and after her own curvy path, she’s contemplating a career in ghostwriting or journalism.
This is living proof that where you start does not need to be a “career prison” for the rest of your working years. Our differentiated starts both provided us with valuable experiences that are catalysts for our desired futures.
My friend honed her writing, theoretical, and analytical skills as she continued down various academic and career paths. And now you may be thinking, “Sure, academics is totally transferable for a career in writing, but finance… no way.” Way…
Take a walk with me.
Every experience serves a purpose
During my time in corporate finance and as a project manager, I learned incredibly valuable skills that I still utilize in my business now.
I’ve talked in previous posts about how valuable my experience managing programs and projects has proven to be in better serving my clients. It allows me to easily plan and communicate a path forward, to keep our engagement organized, and to communicate efficiently and effectively.
But my finance background proves to be valuable in its own right.
Although the financials of my business are not complex, having a basic understanding of accounting and finance helps me to breathe more easily in the management of my business. I feel I have a comfortable grasp on my books and budgeting, which gives me one less thing to think about.
Furthermore, my background allows me to relate to many of my clients. Accounting and finance are the “language of business” so I’m more easily able to interact with executives, leaders, and other entrepreneurs. Even if my clients are not focused on writing a business book, we often have common ground in our backgrounds that gives them a sense of comfort.
How do your past experiences serve you in your current work and aspirations? Are you using them as a differentiator?
Uniquely positioned
While I know I’m definitely not the only one (and I hope more people pursue their creative passions), it’s not every day that you find full-time writers coming out of the finance world.
This allows me to differentiate myself and uniquely serve my clients. If I’m working with businesses, it makes their life easier to not have to translate the ever-dreaded use of acronyms or explain why certain value drivers are important (to name a few examples).
And even if our focus isn’t business, my background creates a sense of ease in that my clients can often appreciate that I’ve been where they’ve been. This allows them to feel more seen and heard as we work through a project together.
How do your past experiences allow you to better relate to your clients? Are you authentically letting those experiences shine through for the benefit of your client?
Unexpected Inspiration
Many times we underestimate the power of our own story and background. While you may take your journey for granted, it may only be a figment of someone else’s dreams.
My pivot from finance to writing was a pretty significant one. And while it’s become my norm, I’ve had clients, potential clients, and others convey that the story is an inspiration.
Aside from all the tangible benefits your seemingly unrelated background may provide, one of the most powerful is the impact you have on others. Being authentic and following what inspires you creates the space for your clients to think and act outside of the box as well.
How might your story inspire others? How can you use it to be of service to others in conversations you have?
I help time-crunched business leaders and entrepreneurs enhance their brand through my ghostwriting and strategic communication offerings. Sound like you? Book a strategy session using the link below!
Disclaimer: This blog should not be construed as providing, or intending to provide professional financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. It is simply meant to share my experiences with those who may find them relatable and helpful.