How Identity Influenced a Partnerships Manager's Career at Paradigm Strategy
Rebecca, a Partnerships Manager, shared that being a female Hispanic professional has presented challenges, including feeling "isolated" as the only woman or Hispanic person on teams. To combat this, the professional recommends seeking out professional communities, both inside and outside of one's company, and proactively asking interview questions about diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to ensure a supportive work environment.
Networking, Overcoming Challenges, Community Building, Interview Skills, Diversity and Inclusion
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Rebecca Elguindi
Partnerships Manager
Paradigm Strategy
University of Arizona, 2015
n/a
Political Science, American Studies
Consulting & Related Professional Services, Technology
Sales and Client Management
Took Out Loans, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Building a supportive community is crucial, especially when facing isolation as a minority in the workplace. Networking and seeking out like-minded individuals, both inside and outside of your company, can provide valuable support and comradery.
2. Don't hesitate to ask about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives during the interview process. Inquire about the team's composition and how the company supports individuals from diverse backgrounds.
3. Early career professionals should proactively seek out mentorship and sponsorship to help navigate challenges and advance their careers. This is particularly important for individuals from underrepresented groups who may face additional hurdles.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as female and Hispanic, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
I've been part of organizations where I was the only female on a sales team, or the only Hispanic person in the company. That can definitely be challenging and feel isolating.
So, something I've done and would recommend is to seek out community. If that community doesn't exist within your company, there are many outside networks.
Find people on LinkedIn with whom you can share your experiences and gain a sense of support and camaraderie. Connecting with like-minded people is really important.
Also, if diversity and inclusion are important to you, I wish I had asked more questions during interviews early in my career. I would have asked about the team composition, how they supported people of different identities, and their approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
I know that's a much larger focus now than when I started. But if it's important to you, don't be afraid to ask those questions during interviews.