Nine Lessons from Women’s Leadership Program Kickoff

WILD, Beck’s Women in Leadership Development Program kicked off 2016 with a panel discussion focusing on career lessons learned by three of Beck’s newest senior female employees.

Andrea Kirsten-Coleman recently joined Beck’s Marketing group as Communications Manager, with a diverse background in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, having most recently worked with The Bush Institute. Brenda Schertz and Beverly Hill both came to Beck from other Dallas area General Contractors. Brenda is now Beck’s Treasurer and Beverly is Director of Risk.

A few themes emerged during the discussion and were echoed by multiple panelists:

• Don’t consider anything to be beneath yourself. If a task is sent your way, do it.
• Model your success after managers that you admire. Reach out to them and ask for advice on how to progress your career. People skills are crucial and you should not be hesitant to build relationships with those your work for.
• You can do more than you think you can. Periods of great growth usually occur when you are challenged and stretched beyond your perceived limitations.
• Don’t take constructive criticism personally. If you feel offended, forgive quickly.
• Get involved in professional organizations. Not only will you build professional relationships, but you will also develop friendships with like-minded people. These individuals will be great resources when making future career decisions.
• Don’t be afraid to self-promote. Your accomplishments won’t always be noticed if you don’t draw attention to them.
• Your attitude is the one thing you can always control. Work hard and perform your duties with determination and a positive outlook.
• The best way to be assertive—and still be well perceived—is to “know your stuff” and be prepared for important conversations. Always have a plan for what you want to say and how to say it.
• Embrace what makes you unique. Own the qualities you have that others don’t.

The Women in Leadership Development Program will continue through 2016 with monthly events designed to inspire, connect and educate women across the company.