Knowing how to do the work is only one part of learning how to build a career. The rest is often less explicit: understanding expectations, forming relationships, developing judgement and finding the confidence to contribute. In this series, members of our community share what they discovered along the way, and what they wish they had known earlier.
Farida Menig on Early Career Lessons
Farida Menig is Senior Legal Counsel at Rabobank. She reflects on the transition from academic knowledge to professional practice, building relationships across different backgrounds and workplace cultures, and learning to recognise the value of her own perspectives and experiences.
Looking back at the first few years of your career, what did you find most challenging?
“The most challenging part was bridging the gap between theory and practice. While my studies provided a strong foundation, applying that knowledge to real-life situations was not always straightforward. Every case, environment, and stakeholder brought new complexities. Learning how to translate academic concepts into practical solutions while building relationships and finding my place in environments with a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and workplace cultures required time and experience. Over time, I learned that success does not come from fitting in perfectly, but from being my authentic self while continuing to learn from others.”
What do you know now that you wish you had known then?
“I wish I had known that you do not have to do everything on your own. There is real strength in working together, asking for help, allowing others to guide you, and giving yourself the time and space to learn and develop. Equally important, it is okay to be your authentic self. Your added value comes from the unique perspectives and experiences you bring because of the person you are and the life you lived.”
What other advice would you give early-career professionals?
“Nothing is set in stone. Your career path does not have to follow a predetermined route, and it is perfectly fine to change direction when your interests or goals evolve. Be open to learning from and being inspired by others but remember that you are the captain of your own ship. Ultimately, you are the one steering your career in the direction that feels right for you.”
