Significant Career Lesson From A Vice President Philanthropic Strategies At United Way San Diego
Katie, VP Philanthropic Strategies at United Way of San Diego County, emphasizes the importance of clear communication and persistent effort in career advancement, stating "you have to verbally ask for it" because people can't read minds. Katie also advises to actively seek opportunities for growth, even those seemingly beyond reach, and to become well-rounded by volunteering for tasks outside one's role to understand the organization comprehensively, allowing one to "shine" when gaps arise.
Philanthropy, Nonprofit Management, Career Advancement, Opportunity Seeking, Skill Development
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Katie Khaism-San
VP Philanthropic Strategies
United Way of San Diego County
SDSU & Springfield College
Humanities, Business Management & Admin
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Communication and Marketing
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Verbally ask for what you want; people cannot read your mind.
2. Keep your eye open for opportunity, even if it seems outside of your reach.
3. Volunteer to step in and take over other roles to become well-rounded and learn how the organization works.
Transcript
What is one lesson you have learned that has proven to be successful in your career?
You have to keep trying if you want something. One, you have to verbally ask for it; people can't read your mind. They don't know what you want, and they're not being personal.
So, you have to be very vocal and make sure everyone knows what you want or what you're going for. Then, you just have to keep your eye open for opportunities. If you see a position open or a way to expand the organization's mission, go for it, even if it's outside your reach.
Another thing I learned is how to do everything. I might have had my role, but when somebody would leave, I would volunteer to step in and take over. I did this so I could become well-rounded and learn completely how the nonprofit worked. People leave, and there's a hole, which is really an opportunity for you to shine.