What I Learned Working at Google (It Wasn’t All Perks)
When people find out I worked at Google, they usually ask, “Was it as cool as it sounds?” The answer is yes — and also way more intense than most people imagine.
1. The Smartest People in the Room (Every Room)
I’ve worked with some brilliant folks before, but Google takes it to another level. People are sharp, fast, and always thinking ten steps ahead. It pushed me to level up quickly. You don’t come to a meeting unprepared — trust me.
But what stood out the most was how collaborative it all was. No one was trying to be the smartest for the sake of it. Everyone wanted to build something better, faster, smarter — together.
2. Systems That Actually Work
Google runs on structure. There are processes for everything — onboarding, project approvals, campaign workflows. It felt like every moving part had a purpose, and every role was backed by real strategy.
As a project manager, this was gold. I didn’t have to chase down clarity; it was built into the system. And when things moved fast (which they always did), that structure kept everything from spiraling.
3. Nothing Is Permanent
Here’s the part people don’t always expect: Google is also volatile. Teams shift. Priorities change. Roles aren’t always secure. Even when you’re doing great work, you have to be ready for change — sometimes overnight.
That unpredictability taught me how to stay grounded, adapt fast, and never stop learning. It also reminded me that titles don’t define you. Skills, relationships, and resilience do.
In the end: Google was a masterclass in high performance. I learned how to lead with structure, think with clarity, and collaborate with the best of the best. It wasn’t forever, but it definitely shaped how I work — and I’m better for it.