After a decade away from corporate life, my return to a full-time job was both unexpected and eye-opening. The experience, though brief, offered valuable lessons that go beyond the job itself and speak to the evolving nature of work, especially in tech-driven environments. The first lesson was practical: ensure your technology is up to date. My older Mac couldn’t run the latest versions of key tools like Asana and Slack, forcing me to use them in a browser where performance lagged. This small technical hurdle slowed my productivity more than I expected. It wasn’t the work that tripped me up—it was the tools. Lesson two came from a misstep in communication. I assumed flexibility meant I could work in stretches without checking in. But in a remote setting, silence on Slack can be interpreted as disengagement. I missed a message from my boss during a break, and the delayed response was seen as a lack of accountability. The takeaway? Even when working remotely, visibility and responsiveness matter. Lesson three was about presence. I learned that virtual meetings demand professionalism, even if you’re at home. Wearing a stained t-shirt with messy surroundings in the background doesn’t project reliability. It’s not about perfection, but about showing up as a committed team member—mentally and visually. Lesson four was the hardest: ego has no place in a fast-moving corporate environment. Despite my experience, I was called out for subpar work. I had been eager to prove myself, but speed didn’t equal quality. I realized that even seasoned professionals must stay humble, stay sharp, and stay open to feedback. Lesson five highlighted a deeper shift in hiring culture. The company had a youthful, high-energy vibe. I’m nearing 50, and while I brought experience, I may not have fit the cultural mold. Younger hires often bring fresh energy, adaptability, and a willingness to work long hours for less pay. That doesn’t make my experience less valuable—but it does mean it’s not always the top priority. Lesson six was the most empowering: not fitting in doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. The job didn’t work out, but I don’t blame the company. They had their goals, their pace, their culture. And I realized this might be a sign to consider new paths—perhaps building my own business or focusing on freelance work where my experience is a strength, not a liability. I walked away with more than a lesson in corporate etiquette. I gained clarity on my strengths, a better understanding of today’s workplace, and a renewed sense of purpose. The job didn’t last, but the learning did.