Significant Career Lesson From A Chief Of Strategic Communications At California High-Speed Rail Authority
Melissa's most significant career lesson centers on the importance of mentorship, emphasizing that it's not always formal; "it's people you meet...that you can talk to," who offer guidance at various career stages, acting as champions. This includes "paying it forward" by becoming a mentor to others.
Mentorship, Networking, Work-Life Balance, Leadership, Career Development
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Melissa Figueroa
Chief of Strategic Communications
California High-Speed Rail Authority
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
none
Creative Writing, Journalism
Government & Public Sector
Communication and Marketing
Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Mentorship is crucial for career growth and should be an ongoing process, not a one-time event.
2. Mentors can offer valuable advice and support during various career stages and life events.
3. It's essential to build and maintain strong professional relationships and to also mentor others, paying it forward
Transcript
What is one lesson you've learned that has proven significant in your career?
Mentorship matters. It doesn't always have to be very prescriptive, like you sign up to get a mentor. It's people you meet throughout your career that you gel with, that you can talk to, and who have been doing what you are doing for a little bit longer. They can provide career advice and you feel comfortable asking them questions.
It's really important to keep those relationships going; it should not be a one-time thing. The people I have in my corner as my mentors and my champions are from all my career paths throughout my entire journey. They each bring something different to the table.
For example, my chief of staff in the Senate was there when I had my first child. She helped guide me through that really crazy point where you're a brand new mom working in an intense job. She helped me navigate how to be effective at both.
Different people help you with different points in your life. So, find those people first, but then also be that for someone else. Pay it forward; it's really important work to be a champion for someone else.