As I mark my sixth year in Tokyo (I’m Korean and left Dubai in 2013), working as a brand manager, I often reflect on how my previous career as an Emirates flight attendant has shaped my current success in a conservative Japanese company. The transition from the dynamic world of aviation to the structured realm of corporate Japan has been a journey of adaptation and growth, leveraging skills I never knew would be so crucial in this new chapter of my life. Here's how my flight attendant experience became the bedrock of my success in the Japanese business world:
In aviation, timing is critical. This ingrained punctuality became my guiding principle in Japan, where respect for time is deeply embedded in the culture. Being consistently punctual earned me respect and trust in the corporate sector.
As a flight attendant, my entire day revolved around preparing for a flight. From adjusting my sleep and wake-up timings to gathering detailed information about the flight and destination, every aspect was meticulously planned. This level of preparation has been invaluable in my role as a brand manager, where thorough planning and attention to detail are critical for success.
Interacting with passengers from diverse backgrounds was a lesson in cultural sensitivity. This skill proved invaluable in Japan, known for its unique business etiquette. It helped me navigate cultural nuances, build stronger relationships, and avoid misunderstandings.
The ability to make quick, informed decisions in uncertain situations, a common occurrence in aviation, became vital in the fast-paced and often ambiguous world of Japanese business.
My daily routine as a flight attendant involved communicating in multiple languages. This ability to connect across language barriers became a key tool in engaging with international clients and colleagues in my role as a brand manager.
Being a 'people person' in the skies was about understanding and connecting with others. This skill was crucial in building a collaborative environment in a hierarchical and group-oriented work culture.
The discipline required for life as a flight attendant was intense. This self-management skill was essential in managing the demands and expectations of a rigorous corporate setting, helping me maintain balance and focus.
Reflecting on my journey from the skies to the boardroom, I realize how the skills acquired in one career can pivot to success in another, vastly different environment.