Kansas City Women Leaders Share Career Tips for Success
Kansas City has been home to many inspiring women who have made waves in the business world, especially in the arenas of marketing and advertising. Recently, three local executives who are part of the Women of Influence circle gathered to share their experiences and offer sage advice, emphasizing the importance of asking for more, being optimistic, embracing discomfort, and considering the legacy you want to create.
Raise Your Hand
Beth Wade, the global chief communications and integration officer at VML, has built an impressive career starting out as a local store marketing manager at Applebee’s International Inc. She recalls her early days, stating, “I was very young, and I had great managers, but I always asked, ‘What could I do for you, and could I take this on?’” Her proactive approach led her to seize numerous opportunities, fostering a sense of autonomy that was unusual for someone her age.
Katie Briscoe, CEO of MMGY Global, similarly embraced challenges as she stepped into roles without traditional expertise. Right after college, she took on a job at the local public health agency, tackling community relations while discussing flu vaccine shortages on local news. “I was wildly uncomfortable,” Briscoe said, “but it started to prepare me for the rest of my career.” By consistently seeking additional responsibilities, she refined her skills and learned to thrive under pressure.
Embracing Discomfort
Another essential piece of advice championed by these leaders is to embrace discomfort. Wade insists that, “If you ask for opportunities, that helps you gain experiences and credentials, and that helps propel your career.” It’s about venturing beyond what’s comfortable. Mahaffy echoed this sentiment, encouraging others to pursue challenges and not shy away from situations that feel daunting.
Mahaffy, co-CEO of Signal Theory, shared how she continuously sought to expand her responsibilities. “I wasn’t afraid to ask for more,” she said, acknowledging that her unyielding pursuit might have driven some colleagues a little crazy, but it was critical for her growth. She explained, “What you focus on grows,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive perspective in the face of adversity.
Think About Your Legacy
Legacy is another fundamental theme discussed among these successful women. Mahaffy suggested that thinking about the legacy you want to leave can help shape your career journey. “If you want to leave a legacy of running a great place to work, how does that impact how you work day-to-day?” she posed, noting how legacy-building can guide decisions and define your path.
Building a Supportive Network
None of these leaders achieved their success in isolation. They all emphasized the importance of surrounding themselves with mentors and individuals who challenge their ideas. Briscoe stressed the necessity of having voices in your corner that provide constructive feedback, saying, “Without that gift throughout my career, there is no way I would be sitting in this seat.”
She believes in the power of being surrounded by people who will question and push you, moving away from the concept of an “echo chamber”. “I want to be pressure tested,” she stated, highlighting how crucial it is to seek out diverse opinions and perspectives in order to foster growth.
In Conclusion
In Kansas City, the stories of women like Beth Wade, Katie Briscoe, and Ali Mahaffy stand as empowering reminders of what it takes to advance in the competitive world of business. By raising their hands, embracing discomfort, and focusing on their legacies, they not only paved the way for their own success but also opened doors for future generations of women in the workforce. As they continue to lead and inspire, their advice serves as a valuable guide for anyone looking to take their career to the next level.
