Significant Career Lesson From an HR Business Partner at County of Ventura
Erin, a HR Business Partner, emphasizes the significant value of learning from leaders and mentors throughout one's career journey, stating that "knowledge is power, knowledge is wealth". This approach, honed through utilizing university career services and proactively engaging with professors, helped Erin develop crucial skills applicable to their current role, such as communication and storytelling, highlighting the importance of "learning from the people that have gotten before you".
Leadership, Mentorship, Communication, Career Development, Networking
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. Learn from leaders and mentors: Seek guidance from those in leadership roles and utilize resources like career services offices to gain valuable insights and advice.
2. Network and build relationships: Connect with professionals in your field of interest, including professors and family friends, to learn from their experiences and expand your knowledge.
3. Knowledge is power: Actively seek knowledge from those who have paved the way in your desired career path, learn from their mistakes, and use this information to inform your own career journey.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you've learned has proven significant in your career?
A really big lesson I've learned is how to learn from leadership. This means being brave and bold enough to talk to your leadership about anything concerning your job.
Whether it's a problem you're facing or something exciting at your organization you want to learn more about, learning from your leaders and mentors is crucial. At Cal Lutheran University, I definitely utilized the career services office while I was there.
I learned from different career professionals, family friends, and even friends of friends working in various industries. It's about learning from people who hold leadership roles or have professional knowledge and gathering as much information as you can.
The job market is very competitive. Many people aim for exciting fields, and there's room for everyone. However, you should learn from those who have gone before you.
If they have tips or tricks you might not know, remember them as you start your career journey. Learning from leaders and college professors is important. Undergraduate students should discuss these topics with their professors.
For example, in my undergraduate communication classes, I found it beneficial to talk to my professors. I did a research project in undergrad on journalism, and discussing that field with my professor was very eye-opening.
Although I'm not a journalist now, I learned how to ask the right questions, conduct interviews, and finalize stories. This skill applies to writing memos and job postings, which are also forms of communication with the public.
Learn from your leadership, your teachers, and everyone you talk to, as they all have a story. Get to know the people around you and learn from their mistakes too.
Knowledge is power and wealth. The more you know, the better off you will be. The best place to find knowledge is from those who have gone before you.