The Evolution of Experience
Regardless of personal taste in music or one’s views on their contribution to culture, an undeniable fact about The Beatles was their amazing productivity. All their studio albums were recorded between 1963 and 1969, with most of their best-known work coming from the last three of those years. In total, they released well over 200 songs many of which continue to be popular across generations.
The evolution of The Beatles' songwriting, melodies, arrangements, and recording techniques is legendary. Comparing an early hit like "Please Please Me" to "You Never Give Me Your Money" from their last album is a testament to their growth and creativity.
This 7-year progression inspired me to reflect on my own career evolution. It started with a first entry-level job as a Pan Am Passenger Service Agent, into various roles such as Station Trainer, Team Leader, Supervisor, Station Manager, Project Manager, and eventually, General Manager of a Ground Handling subsidiary of United Airlines.
That last assignment became a pivotal moment in my career and, at the time, felt daunting and almost impossible to complete. The goal was to design and launch a licensed and certified ground handling company with a $2 million budget, and 100 new employees, to service United's own flights as well as other airline customers. I was given six months to do the job, despite having no previous experience in ground handling, procurement, logistics, or setting up businesses in other countries.
Putting my initial reservations aside, I took on the challenge with the support of experts and resources in every phase of the project. I worked with people who were typically 20 years older than me and learned so many critical processes in legal, financial, administrative, HR, safety and compliance, contracts, sales, etc. (I even designed the company’s logo myself!).
The company started on schedule and under budget when I turned 27 years old, and it was a valuable lesson in recognizing one’s strengths and weaknesses, empowering and delegating to far more capable individuals and team.
I became a fan of The Beatles just a couple of years ago. The origin story, stardom, breakup and later solo careers of their members fascinates me. From all this, and my own career experience, I draw a few insights:
1. Do the work: The Beatles achieved success in that short period of time because they had been playing together since their teenage years, including an intense stint in Germany (beautifully described by Malcolm Gladwell in “Outliers”). This underscores the importance of putting in the effort and gaining experience in as many areas in of your field, including taking on formidable projects and challenges.
2. Take risks: The Beatles made a bold decision to retire from touring, which represented a significant source of income, and dedicated their time to experimenting with studio recording. This willingness to take risks led to innovation, confidence, and the acquisition of new skills. In professional development, it's important to be open to taking calculated risks and stepping out of your comfort zone to grow.
3. Rely on outside experts: The Beatles had influential figures like Brian Epstein, their manager, and George Martin, their producer, who provided them with advice, support, encouragement, and feedback. Collaborating with experts, including mentors and consultants, can be a rich source of inspiration and knowledge in your own professional journey.
4. Adapt and be flexible: The Beatles evolved their music and style over the years, constantly adapting and creating new trends. They matured as individuals and as a group, and this was reflected in their output. Similarly, in our careers, being adaptable and flexible, and embracing unplanned opportunities and challenges can lead to unexpected growth and satisfaction.
As you reflect on your own successes, challenges, and learnings, don't hesitate to share your stories with younger colleagues and friends. You may be pleasantly surprised by the valuable insights and inspiration you can provide.