annie jean-baptiste
2 min readAug 16, 2020

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10 years at Google. I can't believe it! I walked into the cambridge office as that shy, nervous 22 year old with severe imposter syndrome and even though I still feel that (because so many Googlers are so incredible!) I feel like I grew into an adult at Google. Here are ten things I learned:

10. Be yourself. Trying to fit into a mold is a thankless and draining job. Step into your light.

9. Lead with yes. As one of my favorite former managers Karen Sumberg said, "lead with yes and doors will open."

8. Pack that bag! I've been able to to to south africa, copenhagen, brazil, thailand , the hague and more because of Google. As an introvert, it can be scary to be alone in a new place but you grow in ways you never could have imagined

7. Surround yourself with things that bring you joy.We are a dog company- If you know me, you know I love dogs. Being able to being baby herksie with me to work (almost every day) has been a joy

6. Dream big- moonshots matter in your personal life too. Set big goals, ones that give you butterflies. ou can achieve them if you stay diligent and hold yourself accountable and try new things.

5. "Vamos a começar algo novo" (a sticker I got from a trip to Google Brazil.) if you are doing things that you've always done, you'll be where you will always be! Ask why, be curious, dig deeper.

4. Ask. Whether it's to meet with a leader you admire, or to take on that new project, ask. Don't shut yourself out-let someone else do that for you. If you don't get something, ask. If you're interested, ask. Always ask. It's also ok to say "I don't know" or my favorite, "that's a fantastic question, I'll get back to you!"

3. Have fun- one of my favorite things about Google is the people. I also love the guest speakers, working outside, or trying new food. You spend more time at work than you do with many people you love. Be present and have fun. Have joy and identity outside of work.

2. Show up for one another-this is a complicated world and it's important to show empathy. It's beautiful and more than ok to be vulnerable. That goes for teammates, your family, and your community.

1. Practice gratitude- document and come back to your why. Why do you get out of bed?how can you practice your passion in your daily role? I’m thankful for everyone who has had a hand in shaping my career at Google.

If you’re interested in learning more, follow @its_me_ajb

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