Unveiling Your Authenticity: Being Seen, Valued and Heard at Northwestern Mutual - Seite 2

ON FINDING UNEXPECTED ALLIES AND MENTORS

Jessica Janz-McKnight, Standards & Governance Senior Specialist

In my first "real job" I worked in a white, male-dominated industry, and at the time I was the youngest, and only black female research analyst. I often found myself in spaces where people didn't think I had a lot of credibility. I felt like my coworkers were wondering what could I bring to the table, and what could I do for them that they didn't already know how to do. So I took advantage of mentorship opportunities. I was paired with the longest-serving research analyst at the organization. He was brilliant, he knew everything about everything, and he knew that he had indispensable skills. What he taught me was the importance of having a skill that nobody can take from you and nobody can replicate. You can find allies in unexpected places. Take as much as you can in those moments until you're the expert. I no longer feel like an "other," I feel like I have something unique to bring.

ON ASKING FOR HELP AND ADVOCATING FOR YOURSELF

Margaret Lusiba, Senior Director Investment Operations

I was working in Investment Operations when my young son was in daycare, and it was really difficult for me. Kids get sick, kids need you, and I couldn't be available for him and for my job 8 hours out of the day. I spoke to my boss - you have to have a good relationship with your leader - and I said "why can't you give me the option to work from home?" This was before Covid, so obviously he said no to that. But then I suggested taking a computer home for short stints while I was picking up my son, or when he was sick. And because I could demonstrate that my quality of work wasn't suffering, this option worked out for everybody. You have to be bold, step up and ask for help.

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Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Northwestern Mutual
Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/northwestern-mutual
Email: [e-mail]

SOURCE: Northwestern Mutual

View the original press release on accesswire.com