How Identity Has Influenced an HR Business Partner at County of Ventura's Career
Erin, a young woman working as an HR Business Partner, emphasizes the importance of self-confidence, stating, "I know what I'm talking about," and the value of diverse perspectives in the workplace, advocating for young women to "keep pushing forward" despite potential challenges. The County of Ventura's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion provides a supportive environment for this career journey.
Overcoming Challenges, Confidence, Teamwork, Communication, Motivational Stories
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Erin Niemi
HR Business Partner
County of Ventura
Cal Lutheran University
Cal Lutheran University - Master's of Public Policy and Administration
Communications
Government & Public Sector
Human Resources (HR)
Video Highlights
1. You can do anything you are passionate about, regardless of gender.
2. Even in supportive environments, young women need to assert their knowledge and capabilities, combating potential ageism and sexism.
3. Diverse perspectives are crucial in the workplace; a young woman's perspective is valuable and should be actively shared and celebrated.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a young woman in the workforce, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
I want to start this answer by saying that women can do anything they are passionate about. Whether it's science, art, or different languages, we can do it.
This is how I've navigated my career as a young woman. It's definitely been a journey of knowing that I know what I'm talking about. Just because I am on the younger side and a young woman doesn't mean I don't know what I'm talking about.
I'm close to issues and I see solutions. My age or gender doesn't make my answer any less correct. I'm fortunate to work at an organization that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, working for the county.
Throughout your career, even if you're supported by everyone around you, you know what you're talking about. Young women, we know what we're doing. We are just as smart and super sharp. We can learn things super quickly.
We have strengths that deserve to be shared and celebrated in the workplace. So young women, we can do anything. As I've navigated my career, I've kept that in mind and in my heart. I know what I'm doing, I'm smart, I'm capable, and I can handle the challenges in front of me.
If I could give my younger self a piece of advice as a young woman starting her career, or to anyone watching this, even if you aren't a young woman: you know what you're talking about. You're close to your issues and you can find solutions to those problems.
Just keep that in mind. You can do this, and we can do this as a team. The more perspectives at the table, the better. It's very important to honor so many different perspectives. If you're a young woman, your perspective matters. You know what you're talking about. Keep pushing forward because you can do this.