Harnessing Your Professional Power (with author Lauren Wesley Wilson)
Aug 13, 2024
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Lauren Wesley Wilson, author of *What Do You Need?* and founder of ColorComm, shares her insights on empowering women of color in the workforce. She discusses the necessity of setting goals and engaging in purposeful networking to enhance career growth. The conversation delves into transformative strategies for building supportive communities and how resilience plays a role in navigating career setbacks. Wilson emphasizes trusting one's intuition and the importance of emotional intelligence in high-pressure environments, offering valuable guidance for personal and professional development.
The importance of setting adaptable goals helps individuals navigate career setbacks while fostering resilience and long-term success.
ColorComm emphasizes building personal connections over formal networking to create supportive environments for women of color in the workforce.
Deep dives
Empowerment Through Letting Go
Holding on too tightly to desires can lead to limitations, as the conversation emphasizes the importance of intent and release. By wishing for and wanting something without attachment allows for empowerment and growth. When individuals stop relying on external support and realize they must turn inwards, they unlock their potential and invite positive outcomes into their lives. This shift in perspective encourages a more courageous participation in one’s journey.
The Birth and Growth of ColorCom
ColorCom was founded by Lauren Wesley Wilson as a response to the lack of representation for women of color in leadership roles within the workforce. Initially starting as a simple luncheon among peers, it quickly evolved into a professional network focusing on providing support and opportunities for women in the communications industry. In addition to her professional background, Lauren's connections from her previous roles contributed to the growth of ColorCom. This network fosters an environment of kinship and collaboration, emphasizing shared experiences while facilitating professional advancement.
Transformative Networking Practices
The unique approach of ColorCom gatherings revolves around prioritizing personal connections over formal networking. Unlike traditional events that often focus on speakers, these luncheons encourage attendees to articulate their needs, creating a space for reciprocal support. This practice not only fosters deeper connections among members but also accelerates the exchange of valuable resources and insights. By shifting the focus to the attendees, the luncheons empower women to seek support and assistance from one another immediately.
Navigating Career Challenges and Goals
Setting realistic goals is fundamental to professional fulfillment, and Lauren emphasizes the importance of being adaptable as one's aspirations evolve. Reflecting on her initial ambition to become a VP by 30, she recognizes that unforeseen paths can lead to even greater accomplishments. The journey toward one's goals often involves setbacks, and maintaining resilience during these times is crucial. Seeking guidance through mentors or coaches can provide the necessary support for navigating these challenges and achieving long-term success.
Cleo Wade is joined by the author of What Do You Need? and the founder and CEO of ColorComm, a network for women of color in the workforce. They chat about the value of setting goals, how to make networking purposeful, and navigating career setbacks.