Significant Career Lesson From A Philanthropy Officer At UNICEF USA
A significant career lesson for the UNICEF USA Philanthropy Officer is the importance of setting boundaries, learning to say "no" when necessary, even to potentially lucrative opportunities if "something doesn't seem quite right" ethically. This ability to speak up and establish boundaries is a skill that developed over time, and a crucial one for early career professionals to cultivate.
Ethical Considerations, Boundary Setting, Work-Life Balance, Professional Communication, Decision-Making
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Bridget Maxim
Philanthropy Officer
UNICEF USA
University of Southern California, 2013
University of Missouri St. Louis (Secondary Education); University of Southern California (MBA)
Environmental & Related Sciences
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Sales and Client Management
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Setting boundaries is crucial for work-life balance and ethical considerations. It's okay to say no to opportunities that don't align with your values or create an unhealthy work environment.
2. Don't be afraid to speak up if something doesn't feel right, even if it involves potentially significant opportunities. Your intuition matters.
3. Learning to say no and set boundaries is a skill that develops over time. It's okay to be uncomfortable initially; it becomes easier with experience.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
Sometimes you have to say no. It's okay to say no, and it's important to know that boundaries exist and to set them.
As an undergraduate or someone new to their career, it can be challenging to feel comfortable setting boundaries. These could be related to work-life balance or ethical concerns.
For example, if you're working with a donor and something doesn't feel right, even if it's an exciting potential donation, you should be able to raise your hand. You can say you don't think it's someone you want to work with.
I've learned to become more comfortable with speaking up about these kinds of issues over time. It's one of the most difficult things to do when you're graduating from college and starting a new role.
However, don't be afraid to speak up when things don't seem quite right or if you need to set a boundary.