blog

Before you start reading this, I already realize there are many people who think of Procter & Gamble as a strange cult-like environment. That’s still up for debate. But, there’s one thing about the place that no one can deny…it’s a place that you build life-long friendships even after you leave to pursue your dreams.

Last month, the P&G Alumni Network held another P&G reunion in Cincinnati and it was done right. An opening cocktail reception at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, a full day of enlightening presentations by current and former P&G executives and then a wonderful dinner hosted by A.G. Lafley, the current CEO at P&G. Oh yes, did I mention that while this is a P&G Alumni event, Procter & Gamble actually sponsors it and senior managment attend the 2 1/2 days of activities. Now that’s an interesting concept…support those who leave the company in the same way you’d support current employees.

Now, why might someone waste a precious weekend to spend it with people you may have worked with 10 years ago. You might actually run into an old boss who fired you. Or, even someone who you compete with now as you’ve both moved on to different companies. I’d argue that no matter what the situation, you actually miss some part of the place where you might have started your career. You may have been closer to many of the people there than you thought at the time. Life-long friendships were created in those P&G days for me and a reunion is an easy way to keep in touch.

There’s also a bit of intrigue in this whole reunion concept. What is everyone else doing today in pursuit of their dream? Are they happy? Are they passionate about what they are working on? Think about it, these are people who started their careers making and marketing soap, diapers, drugs and anti-aging creams. Can you get any more exciting than that?

Well, during the weekend, I spoke with old friends who are now working to build very different businesses. They are now marketing purses made by Louis Vuitton, TAG Heuer watches, Naked Juices, Moet & Chandon and Ray Ban sunglasses. They’ve come a long way from diapers. There is no question that their consumers have chosen these amazing brands as their own personal brand to rocket for.

We all must pursue our own dreams and passions. But along the way, we make friends. And when those friends become lifelong friends, all the hard work purusing thoses dreams become worth it. I’m glad I attended the reunion this year. If you were there, let me know what you thought too.