My first position out of college was a great jumping off point for my career. I worked at a large corporation, and I was in a position where I could learn about—and touch—many facets of business. However, within three years, I began to feel restless and no longer challenged. It was then I decided it was time to make the leap, and start a new career adventure.
I wanted to join an organization where I would feel my work had more impact. WilsonHCG was that organization. At the time, WilsonHCG was a small, but growing, company. It was definitely an adjustment going from a very large corporate environment to that of a startup—an environment in which every position “wears many hats.” But the teamwork and passion I saw in my coworkers each day truly inspired me to produce my best work.
This culture has been invaluable to my development, teaching me lessons that have shaped my character and made my career extremely rewarding. I’ve learned to embrace failure, to take risks, and to be fearless. I’ve also learned it’s okay to make mistakes; in fact, the best learning often comes from mistakes, and sharing what you’ve learned humanizes you as a leader.
On the Person Who Has Had the Most Profound Influence In My Life
My father came to the United States as an adolescent from Cuba in the ’70s and sacrificed his education to start working right away to support his family. His greatest dream was seeing his children earn college degrees, as he valued education more than anything. He never complained about the cards life had dealt him, and remains a hard-working individual to this day. From him, I learned the value of a dollar and of hard work, and that anything in my career could be achieved with a strong and focused work ethic.
On the Inner Work Required for Real Success and Fulfillment
We often think that it’s outer steps and tactics that will pave the way for more success. Actually, it’s the inner work that’s more powerful and potent. Retooling my original plan—to be a high school English teacher—and refocusing my passion required some important “inner work” in order to find fulfillment in my career.
When that plan derailed, I had to do some soul searching, and realized I still had a passion for teaching and helping others—something I do every day in my current career as a talent acquisition professional. Along the way, I learned what it means to keep an open mind, and peel back the layers to find the core of your passion.
In an effort to pass on the lessons I’ve learned, I take part in college recruiting panel discussions at my alma mater. I have also developed an internal talent management strategy at WilsonHCG that targets students looking for internships.
