Google executive Ivy Ross joined the Internet giant in 2014. She worked as head of the company's top secret wearables division. She has previously worked with companies like toy manufacturer Mattel and clothing retailer Gap Inc.
According to Business Insider, before her stint at the companies above, she was a jewelry designer whose work has been placed in the permanent collections of some of the world's top museums. She revealed, though, that while her career path may seem unorthodox, it allowed her to remain true to her identity as a creator as well as to offer and extract value at the same time.
She told the new graduates of the Fashion Institute of Technology recently about the questions that she asks herself before taking a new job. The questions are "What am I going to learn" and "Are they going to use me for what I do best?"
Ross noted that these two questions will help anyone avoid the traps of five-year plans. She believes that these type of plans are problematic for 20-somethings who are still starting with their careers.
After achieving unexpected success with her jewelry while she was still starting out, Ross realized that the elation that comes with one's ego's satisfaction is only temporary and that "there isn't an end game." "It's about the journey, and once you understand that, then it's about creating that journey," she added.
The Google exec also admitted that, five years ago, she never would have thought that she would head the secret Project Aura of the Internet giant. The two questions have helped her to be both flexible and true to herself.
"I think the ideal career path idea will not get you to the right place," she said. "The idea of tapping into who you are, the essence, will."
It was previously reported that, in order to succeed in the modern workplace, graduates should stay positive and remember that what you do today will determine your career's future. In every job, there are always tasks that you may not be thrilled about. Just remember that it will still equip you with the skills you need in your chosen profession.
