Mini me.
The single smartest, most strategic decision I ever made was aligning myself with mentors. Marketing, by definition, is about being creative in how you present yourself and/or the product to your end user and closing a deal. My college education was in news journalism and worked in the field for several years, but later realized my internal infrastructure needed a much more creative environment. With no true experience in marketing, I had to think outside the box to convince someone to hire me and prove my potential.
While working at a 5-star/5-diamond hotel as a server when not in the newsroom, I witnessed a luncheon taking place, recognizing female movers and shakers in the community. The next day, the local newspaper’s business section had a front cover article that captured winners’ stories and backgrounds. I crafted a heartfelt letter on colorful computer paper (specifically, clouds…symbolizing my efforts of reaching for the sky) to one of the award recipients, pleading my case for a chance to work for her. I ended up getting my foot in the door as a receptionist and was promoted over the next several years as a director of marketing and sales. That leap of faith was a testament to the humbling question, “What would you do, if you knew you could not fail?”
The owner of that promotional company who happens to be a witty, brilliant entrepreneur, took me under her wings back then and is still my go-to sounding board today. I turn to her for both personal and professional advice. Her insight, experience and discernment is priceless. Not to mention she provides stellar references in job searches over the years — just today she gave me a “rave review” to an agency I recently interviewed with. And she also connects me to a professional network circle I’d otherwise never penetrate — just today I met with a small start-up business owner to do contract marketing work. I got that lead from her. During our bonding & brainstorming sessions, the signature drink of choice is wine.
At my most recent marketing job, I was lucky enough to acquire yet another mentor. We clicked on so many levels — spiritually, intellectually and emotionally. I knew without a shadow of a doubt that she always had my best interest at heart and would go up to bat for me at the drop of a hat, and she did. Three and a half years later, I was let go… a culprit of the unstable balance sheet. But my boss went down swinging for me, and as I now navigate the deserted job market, she is right there ready and willing to do whatever it takes — just today I turned to her for advice on how to buy myself more time if I get multiple job offers. Her recommendation for my approach was nothing short of perfect. During our bonding & brainstorming sessions, the signature drink of choice is tequila.
Since I came out of the womb, I’ve been surrounded by rock solid women. My mother and only sister have always been considered the greatest show on earth in my book. Their work ethic, resiliency, superhuman strength and juggling abilities lead me to believe they ran a 3-ring circus in a former life.
The last month and a half of unemployment was not something I was prepared for, both psychologically or financially. But to say that all of this change, shifting and reconfiguration on my resume is a blessing in disguise would be a boldface lie. I have no doubt whatsoever that there is a greater purpose taking place before my eyes —no amount of camouflage can cover that up.
Now, not to say I wouldn’t be self-sufficient without a herd of savvy double X chromosomes surrounding my every move, but by becoming their very own Mini Me and embracing their brains has allowed me to navigate this board game of life with a lot more confidence, a bit more grace, and a whole hell of a lot more wisdom.
Tonight I will raise my glass to the women in my life who have fostered my growth. The signature tribute drink of choice will be vodka.
