Significant Career Lesson From a Senior Communications Consultant at a Leading Midwest Health Care System
Shelly, a Senior Communications Consultant, identifies two key career lessons: prioritizing kindness ("offering someone a genuine smile...will take you farther than any expertise"), and maintaining work-life balance to avoid compromising personal well-being for professional advancement ("if it starts to compromise you as a person...get out quick and find a balance").
Communication, Leadership, Work-Life Balance, Professionalism, Mentorship
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Shelly Schneider
Senior Communications Consultant
Leading Midwest Health Care System
University of Florida
None
Creative Writing, Journalism
Healthcare, Medical & Wellness, Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Communication and Marketing
Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. Prioritize building relationships through kindness and empathy; these actions have a lasting impact and are more memorable than specific work accomplishments.
2. Financial success is important, but it shouldn't come at the cost of personal well-being and relationships.
3. Maintain a healthy work-life balance; avoid situations where career ambitions compromise personal happiness and family time.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you've learned that has proven significant in your career?
There are two things. The first is that offering someone a genuine smile, a kind word, or a helping hand will take you farther than any expertise you might have. People will likely not remember 5 to 10% of what I have written or created over the last few decades.
But I hope that they will remember that I made them feel loved, empowered, and important. The second thing is that money is great. A six-figure income is a nice thing to have, and a national director title is a great thing to have.
But if it starts to compromise you as a person, if it starts giving you a little bit of anxiety, or if you're having to sell yourself out or take time away from your family, then get out of there. Get out quick and find a balance. You're going to hopefully retire one day, and you don't want all of your friends to be work friends because you didn't pay attention to anybody else.
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