We’ve all made mistakes throughout our careers—mismanaging a project, not applying for a position because we think we’re underqualified, overlooking a skillset, etc. It’s easy to reflect on the decisions we made 5, 10, 15+ years ago and say, “If only I had known this,” or, “If only I had the courage to do X.” Hindsight is 20/20. But those missteps create valuable learning opportunities: We realize it’s never too late to acquire a new skill, change our mindset, or develop a career path. In search of fresh motivation, we tapped 10 U Krewers to share their top career advice … because every challenge comes with a fresh opportunity.
“Always ask. The worst someone can say is, “no.” –Melissa M., Sr. Business Data Analyst
“Do it scared! Don’t let fear get in the way of your growth and new opportunities.” –Angie T., Sr. LMS Analyst
“Be true to who you are. Being authentic is key to my happiness at work and beyond. When I bring my whole self to work, I know people see me for who I am. As a result, I’m able to build the best relationships around me. When I’m being myself, those relationships form naturally.” –Lauren G., Talent Acquisition Partner
“There is something to learn from everyone. It does not matter their title or rank in the company. Everyone brings with them past lessons learned. If you actively listen, they will share these lessons with you, and you will learn.” –Teresa C., Lead Escalation Manager
“Blessed are the flexible, for they shall never get bent out of shape.” –Julie W., Senior Principal Architect
“Everybody knows at least one thing that you don’t. Ask questions and learn from others as much as you can.” –Mahren M., Community Support Manager
“A very kind leader once told me that to succeed as a manager, it is important to be as transparent as possible. Your team members may not always like your decisions, but if you allow them to see your reasoning and that the decision is fair, then you will be much more likely to get buy-in and support from the whole team. I’ve taken that to heart as a leader, as well as with my customers.” –Meg T., VP, Executive Relationship Management
“We have a responsibility to demonstrate and encourage a culture that fosters inclusion, respect for ideas, and diversity of thought—not just sometimes but all of the time!” –Pam L., TO Automation Innovation Team
“You don’t have to meet all the qualifications for a job. Rather, you must be the most qualified person that applies. Too many people hold themselves back because they don’t meet every single qualification on a job posting. Take a chance. It’s always a “no” if you don’t apply.” –Richard B., Product Support Manager
“Make your career aspirations known. When others know what you’d like to achieve, you create a supportive network that’s looking out for opportunities for you. When others know your goals, it also holds you accountable. You are your greatest advocate. If you don’t talk about your accomplishments and goals, no one else is going to do it for you.” –Nichole B., Manager, Marketing Programs
