After experiencing a layoff from my corporate job of 25 years, I found myself in a position where I needed to supplement my income while I built my own business. This led me to apply for a retail job at a clothing store, a decision that I initially made somewhat impulsively but ultimately found to be incredibly rewarding.
Working at Athleta, one of my favorite brands under the Gap Inc. umbrella, was like a dream come true for me. As someone who already owned a significant portion of their clothing line, I felt like I was a walking advertisement for the brand. Landing a seasonal brand associate role allowed me to immerse myself in the world of retail, from assisting customers to performing various tasks around the store. Despite my initial temptation to buy everything in sight, I quickly learned the ins and outs of the role and found joy in helping customers find the perfect items.
Transitioning from a corporate environment to a retail setting was not without its challenges. I had to adjust to the daily goals set for the store, as well as the structured breaks that were a legal requirement. However, I found that these changes brought a sense of routine and purpose to my workday, allowing me to reset and come back to the floor with renewed energy.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my retail job has been interacting with customers. I love hearing about their preferences, where they plan to wear their purchases, and how they want to feel in their clothes. Drawing on my past experience working in my father’s shoe store, I discovered that I had a knack for providing excellent customer service and building rapport with shoppers. This newfound skill set has made my time at Athleta even more fulfilling.
As I navigate the challenges of starting a business from scratch and search for a full-time job in a competitive market, I find myself torn between the stability of corporate life and the flexibility of entrepreneurship. While I miss the collaborative nature of working on major projects with a team, I also value the independence and creativity that come with being my own boss. Ultimately, I have come to appreciate the season of entrepreneurship that I am currently in, and I have no plans to leave my job at Athleta anytime soon.
In conclusion, my decision to take on a retail job as a bridge between my corporate career and entrepreneurial endeavors has been a valuable and enriching experience. Working at Athleta has allowed me to connect with customers, hone my customer service skills, and find a sense of belonging during a period of transition in my professional life. As I continue to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, I am grateful for the opportunity to work in a role that brings me joy and fulfillment.
