My 5 Secrets to Success

Yesterday I had the joy of giving two guest lectures to a Marketing Research class at McGill University. I value these sessions, a chance to connect with the next generation of leaders.

I usually try to blend trends in Analytics and Marketing Research with my journey and secrets to my success. Most groups seem to be most interested in my secrets. While I could probably go on about the similarities of success in career and gardening, I'll save you the metaphors and to straight to the wins, in the hope they bring inspiration to a few of you.

1. Do something you love. Spend time figuring out who you are and what you love to do. It may take you a while to figure this out. Think back to when you were a child, what did you really enjoy spending your 'play' time doing? For me, it was always building, creativity, and yes - math homework. Depending on your personality type, you may need to Think or Feel this. As a proud, Meyers Briggs 'ENFJ', I felt it ~ 'love at first sight'. I'll be very honest, climbing a ladder won't bring you as much joy as doing something you really enjoy doing. Promotions, money, bonuses, job perks...at the end of the day their value is less than that of time, so spend your time doing that something you love.
2. Find a platform to build from. We've all heard the saying, "Rome wasn't built in a day". A career is a similar thing. Once you find that thing you love, approach it with a growth mindset; allow growth to occur organically, and enjoy the ride.
3. Stay sharp. Never depend on someone else to grow and develop for you. To stay competitive and relevant you'll need to keep up. Invest in yourself along the journey and it'll pay off. (I promised no garden metaphors but you really need to fertilize at key points in the season!)
4. See the big picture. At this point in my speaking engagements, I tell a really funny story about my first co-op experience from my B.Comm at the University of Guelph. The summary here is: always take a moment to take a step back and understand the big picture. Why are you spending time on a request/project/etc.? Who is it for? What is it's value? How can you grow from the opportunity? Having this mindset will help you get the most out of the experience, and succeed along the way!
5. Last, roll up your sleeves! Don't be that person in the group project who doesn't contribute their fair share. If you are, you're the one missing out! Instead, put 110% effort in, always. My May shrubs don't bloom beautifully each year as a surprise to me. They bloom from the effort and attention to detail I invest following their bloom the previous season. Oh sorry, I did it again. Hopefully the message sticks, hard work pays off, period.

I hope these tips can help some of you, whether you are starting out on your career path this year, pivoting through an MBA program, or reconsidering your options during this covid-19 period of disruption. For questions, feel free to leave a comment here or on our miixanalytics.com contact page!

Happy weekend!

~ Hilary