Significant Career Lesson from a Research Specialist at University of Southern California
Ruth, a Research Specialist at USC, emphasizes the importance of "always listen[ing] to other people and...trust[ing] yourself," highlighting that career success hinges on collaboration and community building, avoiding the pitfall of "exclud[ing] other people" in one's ambition. This collaborative approach, she notes, creates allies and strengthens the overall work environment.
Teamwork, Communication, Collaboration, Mentorship, Networking
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ruth McCormack
Research Specialist
University of Southern California
Barnard College, 2015
University of Southern California, Masters of Public Administration
History, Art History
Education, Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Sales and Client Management
LGBTQ
Video Highlights
1. Collaboration is key: Success in any role relies heavily on teamwork and building strong relationships with colleagues.
2. Listen and trust your gut: While ambition is important, it's equally crucial to listen to others' advice and trust your instincts.
3. Respect diverse perspectives: Value the input of others, even if it differs from your own, to foster a supportive community and enhance your work.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
For me, the lesson is to always listen to other people and to also listen to your own gut. Trust yourself in multiple ways.
Early in my career, I learned that it's okay to have ambition, but you need to make sure you don't exclude others in that ambition. As has been a theme in all my answers in this interview, we don't work in silos. We don't work alone; we work in a team.
Even if your job involves working by yourself, you're still part of a greater body, whether it's an organization or your community. Someone is always there to help you.
If you do things on your own and don't listen to others, even if it's advice you initially don't want to hear, but you give people the respect to listen, then you create a friend and an ally. This allows you to grow your community, which is vitally important in any role, I believe.
Advizer Personal Links