Career paths often follow nonlinear trajectories that include journalism, congressional staff work, public relations, and other early roles. Attempting to engineer a perfect master plan can obscure immediate opportunities and slow progress. Concentrating on a single passion can align skills and compensation over time as related opportunities appear. Starting work in any available role builds experience and creates pathways to better positions without requiring long-term commitment to the first job. Casual networking in elevators, hallways, and workspaces can open doors; asking simple questions when meeting new people can expand connections and accelerate career advancement.
"People look back on their careers and go: 'Wow it wasn't a straight line,'" Perino told Fortune. "If I had planned out my whole life, my life wouldn't have been my life."
"Pick the one thing you love to do and do that-and the salary will follow," Perino recalled. "I didn't trust that advice at first, but he was right."
"Just start working-wherever it is. It doesn't mean you have to stay there for two years."
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