Significant Career Lesson From a Development and Communications Manager at Groundwork Southcoast
Gianna's most significant career lesson centers on bringing "your whole self" to work, finding a place where authentic self-expression is valued, rather than masking aspects of one's personality. This approach, essential for improving quality of life and maximizing work fulfillment, is a lesson learned after recognizing the toll of compartmentalizing oneself in the workplace, particularly for neuro-atypical individuals.
Authenticity, Workplace Culture, Self-Integration, Work-Life Balance, Career Satisfaction
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Gianna Sollitto
Development & Communications Manager
Groundwork Southcoast
Bryant University
N/A
Communications
Climate, Environment, Sustainability & Waste Management, Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Sales and Client Management
Disabled, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, LGBTQ
Video Highlights
1. Bring your whole self to work. Find a workplace where you can be authentic and don't have to "mask" your personality.
2. Authenticity increases quality of life and work satisfaction. It's not just about company culture but a commitment to yourself.
3. It may take time to find the right workplace where you can be your true self. Don't get discouraged if your first job isn't the perfect fit.
Transcript
What's one lesson you've learned that has proven significant in your career?
Being able to integrate all sides of yourself in your work is the number one thing to take away. This applies whether you're in a for-profit or nonprofit setting, working for a cause you're genuinely excited about.
Look for a place where you can be yourself, especially when interviewing. Bring your whole self to these opportunities. The more we compartmentalize ourselves, the more we do a disservice.
This is especially true for neurodivergent individuals. Even if you're funny, you might feel compelled not to express that at work, only to come home exhausted from masking your true self all day.
Showing up authentically and finding a place where that's welcomed can significantly increase your quality of life. This might not happen at your first or even second job, but ultimately, you should aim for a place where you can bring your whole self.
This isn't just about the company culture; it's also a personal commitment. It's easy to dilute yourself in the workplace. However, showing up authentically allows you to get more out of your work.
I've always worked in nonprofits. It seems contradictory to say your work should integrate all parts of yourself and then talk about masking. However, a workplace can live its values without you showing up authentically. So, my number one lesson is to show up authentically.
Advizer Personal Links
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/giannasollitto
Twitter: x.com/GiannaSollitto
Instagram: www.instagram.com/giannasollitto/