What My Job Taught Me About People

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One thing I’ve come to learn through work, both in roles I’ve held and in the kind of job I hope to have, is that people are the most interesting, unpredictable, and sometimes the most inspiring part of any career. You can learn all the technical skills in the world, but understanding people?

My job has taught me that people carry more than just their job titles. Behind every “manager,” “analyst,” or “intern” is a human being with stories, struggles, ambitions, and sometimes even doubts they don’t show on the surface. Early in my career, I used to focus too much on performance and output. I thought if you were good at your job, that was all that mattered. But I’ve seen over time that the best-performing teams aren’t just made of smart people, they’re built on empathy, trust, and genuine human connection.

Working closely with people every day has also made me more patient. I’ve realized that not everyone communicates or works the same way. Some people are fast thinkers and quick responders; others are more thoughtful and need time to process. Some are loud and energetic, others calm and quiet. Everyone brings something different to the table. Instead of trying to change people or expecting them to fit a certain mold, I’ve learned it’s better to listen, observe, and adjust.

One thing that still surprises me is how much small acts of kindness matter at work. A simple “How are you really doing?” or taking five minutes to help someone with a task goes a long way. People don’t forget how you make them feel. Whether they’re your colleague, boss, or someone new to the team, showing up with a little more humanity builds relationships that make the job more meaningful.

I’ve also learned that people are more open than we think, if we just create the space for them to be. I used to think vulnerability was a weakness, especially in professional settings. But I’ve seen firsthand that when leaders admit they don’t have all the answers or when teammates talk about challenges they’re facing, it builds a deeper kind of respect. It’s not about being perfect.

And maybe the biggest lesson? Everyone wants to feel valued. No matter their role, everyone wants to know that what they do matters and that someone sees their effort. I’ve worked with people who’ve never been the loudest in the room, but when they’re acknowledged or given a chance to shine, their confidence and contributions skyrocket.

All of this has made me want to bring more intention into how I interact with people at work. Whether I’m in a leadership role or not, I try to treat people like people, not just colleagues, not just job titles. Because in the end, that’s what creates better work, better culture, and better outcomes.

So, if there’s one thing my job, or my dream job, continues to teach me, it’s this: understanding people is just as important as understanding the work.