I am now going on my second year working in the pharmaceutical industry as an engineer. The following are seven things that I’ve learned that will be useful for any young professional. I hope this assists you in your career journey.
1. You don’t have to have it all figured out.
The older I get, the more I realize that adults are still trying to figure life out. You truly don’t have to have every detail of your five-year plan figured out. As opportunities present themselves, go for them. Change is inevitable, so when it happens in your career just be flexible.
2. Get out of your own way!
Sometimes you have to check the person staring back at you in the mirror, because that’s often the one that’s holding you back. You’re over here doubting yourself when people with half your talent and skills are applying for those positions.
3. Be authentic.
You owe it to yourself and your coworkers/peers to be authentically who you are. As an African American woman, it’s challenging at times to truly be who I am in office spaces that are predominately white. A mentor once challenged me and said “what do you gain by code switching and what do you lose every time? What are you teaching others about you each time you code switch? Now, does this serve you?” Whew!
4. Find a mentor AND a sponsor.
A mentor is someone you may seek out and can happen organically or upon request. Additionally, you need a sponsor who is someone that advocates on your behalf. A mentor is typically who I go to for advice on conflict resolution. And my sponsor is the person that can speak highly of my character and work ethic to key stakeholders when I’m not around. This is especially helpful when it’s time for promotions.
5. It’s not WHAT you know, but WHO you know.
I’ve heard this a lot throughout various networking sessions with the National Society of Black Engineers… and it is so true. Often, building genuine relationships with others will propel you further in your career than simply having the knowledge/skill-set. Thus, expand your network by joining colleague resource groups (if your job has it). Go to that happy hour with your colleagues after work. Invite that person whose life/career you admire out for coffee and learn more about how they got to where they are.
6. You are NOT an imposter.
Like many overachievers within the POC community, we often struggle with this fear that we are inadequate despite our accolades and accomplishments. I feel like I never know enough and that someone will soon find out that I’m not ‘that’ smart. However, when I made it to some of these board rooms full of executives, I learned that my input was truly valued and others may be just as confused at times like I was. The Imposter Syndrome is REAL. The key is to practice affirmations and remind yourself that you belong; you are enough; you are more than capable!
7. Invest in yourself.
Investing in yourself is never a waste of time or money. If you want to get that MBA– go for it! And if you want to perfect your craft for the sake of personal pleasure– pay for those piano or art lessons. I had this idea in my head of what investments are supposed to look like. I’d easily spend money on another degree, but would think hard about signing up for a therapy appointment. Investing in your health, well-being and overall happiness is not a waste since it is improving your quality of life. Besides, you are WORTH the investment!
