Significant Career Lesson From A Staff Biologist At Blackhawk Environmental
Sarah's most significant career lesson is the importance of self-advocacy, emphasizing the need to "speak up and tell someone what you want" regarding projects, pay, and training opportunities. This proactive approach, learned over several years, ensures career goals are met and prevents being "swept up and kind of lost in the motion of things."
Self-Advocacy, Career Development, Project Management, Communication, Career Goals
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Sarah Toback
Staff Biologist
Blackhawk Environmental
University of California, Los Angeles- 2015
Macquarie University- Master of Conservation Biology
Environmental & Related Sciences
Climate, Environment, Sustainability & Waste Management
Research and Development (R&D)
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Self-advocacy is crucial for career progression. Actively communicate your project preferences, desired training, and salary expectations to your superiors.
2. Don't be afraid to express your preferences regarding the types of projects you want to work on.
3. To advance your career, take initiative and actively seek out opportunities that align with your goals.
Transcript
What is one lesson that's been significant for you in your career?
One significant lesson in my career has been to self-advocate for what you want in your role. This applies whether it's about pay, the type of projects you're working on, or if there are trainings you're interested in that you want your company to subsidize.
If you don't speak up and tell someone what you want, you'll likely get swept up and lost in the motion of things. Over the last few years of working in this industry, I've learned to tell my superiors about the kind of projects I like and dislike.
I also learned to ask for their support in achieving my career goals. So, just be an advocate for yourself. Don't get lost.