Significant Career Lesson From A Brand Manager At Diageo China
Sharon's most significant career lesson was learning to "think independently and think critically" when problem-solving, initially relying on their manager but eventually mastering independent analysis before seeking assistance, thus building credibility and accelerating career progression. This involved proactively consulting colleagues across departments to consolidate information before reporting to their manager.
Problem-Solving, Critical Thinking, Independent Thinking, Career Development, Leadership
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Sharon Tsai
Brand Manager
Diageo China
National Taiwan University, 2012
UCLA Anderson School of Management, MBA
Political Science, American Studies
Food, Beverages & Alcohol
Communication and Marketing
International Student
Video Highlights
1. Develop independent problem-solving skills: Don't immediately seek help; first, analyze the situation yourself to internalize learnings and build credibility.
2. Learn to leverage resources beyond your direct manager: Seek information from colleagues and other departments to build comprehensive solutions before reporting to your manager.
3. Proactive learning accelerates career growth: Taking ownership of problem-solving fosters faster learning and advancement within the organization
Transcript
Sharon, what is one lesson you've learned that has proven significant in your career?
If I have that, it would be... you have to think independently and critically when it comes to problem-solving. When I was a junior, I always had to ask my direct manager for help or direction whenever I had problems or encountered challenges.
I think what helped me the most and significantly improved my career was when I started to solve problems myself instead of reaching out to my manager for answers. That's when you learn and internalize the learnings.
This allows you to apply those same learnings and experience into future events. I think that is very important. It also helps you build your own power and credibility within the organization, as well as for your boss. That was an important lesson for me.
However, it doesn't mean you cannot ask for help. Eventually, after thinking and analyzing the situation yourself, if you still cannot figure it out, you can definitely ask for help from your manager. I'm just saying you need to think before asking.
Also, you don't necessarily have to ask your direct manager. You can ask coworkers, other cross-functional departments, or other colleagues. I think they would be helpful and willing to answer your questions.
Once you can gather information from other departments and consolidate those feedbacks or answers into your own, you can then report or reach out to your direct manager. I think this would be very helpful in accelerating your growth.