Significant Career Lesson From An Automation Engineering Manager At Walmart
Alexander's most significant career lesson is the importance of adaptability, emphasizing the need to "roll with the punches" and find benefits in less-than-ideal tasks, such as undesirable work hours. This approach, Alexander notes, led to quicker career advancement and fostered stronger professional relationships because "the right people will notice" a positive attitude even in challenging situations.
Adaptability, Resilience, Work Ethic, Professionalism, Networking
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Alexander Claiborne
Manager, Automation Engineering
Walmart
University of California, Santa Barbara
N/A
Environmental & Related Sciences
Automotive & Auto Parts, Technology
Operations and Project Management
Video Highlights
1. Adaptability and willingness to handle undesirable tasks are crucial for career advancement. Taking on less desirable roles, such as unconventional work hours, can lead to quicker career progression and create valuable connections.
2. Maintaining a positive attitude even when facing less-than-ideal tasks is essential and can foster respect from colleagues and superiors.
3. There is often a positive outcome or hidden benefit to be found in seemingly undesirable situations; look for the silver lining and focus on doing your best work each day.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
One important thing is being adaptable. A lot of times, you won't be doing something you're overly passionate about in the day-to-day. You'll have to do some dry, mundane tasks or things you don't really want to do, maybe even work hours you don't want to.
I've personally done PM shifts, from 3 PM to midnight, and overnight shifts, from midnight to 9 AM. It's not ideal, and I know it's not for everybody. But sometimes, you just have to roll with the punches and try to find a benefit in it.
For me, that was always being able to move up in my career ladder relatively quickly. I think it was because I took on those less-than-ideal hours. I was able to work at companies where I might not have had a chance otherwise.
On a day-to-day basis, people will give you tasks you don't want to work on. It sucks to say, but that's part of life. Our parents probably did it at some point too. Most people aren't truly happy with their work every single day.
So, just roll with the punches again; I can't say that enough. Try to do your best work every day. The end result will be that you'll feel satisfied and like you've really accomplished something.
People will also respect you for it. They'll notice that someone has a less-than-desirable task but still maintains a good attitude. The right people will notice that. You'll also create connections.
People will respect you and connect with you on that level. There are many things that aren't ideal, but there's usually a positive outlook or a silver lining to it.