How Identity Has Influenced a Startup HR at TriNet's Career
Anthony, a multi-ethnic "global citizen," leverages background and experiences to "blend into the community" necessary, whether it's the "rugby team" or a "private equity dinner", and code-switch from one industry to another. This ability to mold identity to build rapport across diverse groups and industries, from "private equity to cosmetics, to startup, to hr," is identified as the strongest skill and has become a crucial part of their career.
Global Citizen, Code-Switching, Adaptability, Communication, Multi-cultural Awareness
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Anthony M. Gonzales
HR - Start-ups
TriNet Inc.
Arizona State University (ASU) - W. P. Carey
Arizona State University (ASU) - W. P. Carey, MBA - Supply Chain
Entrepreneurship
Consulting & Related Professional Services, Insurance
Sales and Client Management
Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Leveraging multi-ethnic background and international experience to connect with diverse groups.
2. Adapting communication style (code-switching) across different industries and professional settings.
3. Using personal identity to build rapport and integrate into various communities.
Transcript
Through your personal identity, how has that impacted how you navigate your career?
I am of multi-ethnic background, with Scottish and Mexican heritage, and I speak Portuguese. I've lived abroad for over three years, across two different continents.
I really identify as a global citizen. I jokingly call myself a "mudblood" and don't adhere to one specific identity. I don't necessarily lead with one racial, ethnic, or linguistic identity.
I blend into the community I want to be a part of, whether that's a rugby team, a family office private equity dinner, or the cosmetic industry. I have to code-switch when discussing topics from private equity to cosmetics, startups, or HR.
This is my strongest skill: allowing my personality and identity to adapt to the population and constituents I'm trying to build rapport with.