Niko Flores

Welcome back to Stories of Chicago! Meet Niko Flores , not just your regular Customer Success Manager, but a true people enthusiast and community champion. With a knack for making connections and a heart devoted to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, Niko brings a level of charisma that is truly unmatched. Buckle up, because with Niko, customer success isn't just a job – it's a journey marked by genuine connections and meaningful impact.

What event has been so impactful that it changed the trajectory of your life???

I think the biggest thing for me was, and this is something that a lot of people experienced during the pandemic. I was furloughed from my previous role in business development, centered around veterinary practices. It was a sales-oriented position, and being my first job in Chicago, it was a pivotal step for me. But then came the furlough, and with it, a much-needed pause to reflect. Was this role aligned with my long-term aspirations? Did it offer the fulfillment I sought, the chance for personal growth? I realized that sales demanded a distinct mindset—one that could navigate the unpredictable waves of highs and lows. I think people who are in sales are a different breed. While the earning potential was promising, the toll on my well-being was undeniable. And so, after careful consideration, I decided to look into grad school at Northwestern University, where I chose to pursue a master's in public policy. My job search afterward was a deliberate quest for roles within non-profits, universities, and local government. The stars seemed to align when I stumbled upon my current position—customer success manager, tailored to government clients. Now, nearly two years into this role, I can look back and see the shifts that have occurred.?

Can you talk a little bit about the transition of moving to Chicago???

I grew up in Dayton, OH, followed by a move to Cleveland for my undergraduate studies. During my time in Cleveland, I couldn't help but feel the disconnection between management and the employees at the company I was working for.? Unless you happened to be in good graces with the manager, it often felt like a dead-end situation for growth. This realization fueled my determination to seek new horizons.?From Cleveland, I made a huge leap to India—a move driven by an opportunity to work with a data analytics company. The idea was to immerse myself in data science and coding, absorbing a crash course in these skills. While the initial excitement was great, reality set in midway, leading me back home. After returning to Ohio, my sights were set on more stable ground, and that's when the opportunity in Chicago surfaced. It was a whirlwind decision, a leap into the unknown, and it led me to where I am today.?

What actually made you acquire a master’s in public policy??Do you feel like it's a good balance between your field of study and your current role?

Looking back, my childhood aspirations were quite different than where I'm currently. I initially had the desire to become a doctor, which was driven by my mother's profession as a child psychiatrist. As a result, I pursued pre-medicine during my undergraduate studies. However, the desire to make a tangible impact, to contribute positively to society, steered me towards public policy. Studying public policy could either lead me to work at a nonprofit and have a direct impact on people or go into government where I could help my community and make it easier for the people around me. Nevertheless, I ended up at a huge corporation which of course, is slightly different than my original plans. Although, I do believe that LinkedIn has its own way of making an impact, both on an individual level and within the community.?

You're involved very heavily with the LinkedIn Asian Alliance employee resource group in Chicago, do you mind discussing why it was important for you to join? What impact do you think that LIAA is making within LinkedIn as a whole???

?One element that truly resonates with me is the power of connections and inclusivity. Throughout my journey at LinkedIn, I've had the privilege to engage with ERG (Employee Resource Group) champions. These conversations gave me unique insights into the organization's culture, especially in terms of diversity, inclusion, and belonging. It was a big difference than previous workplaces, where my experiences often felt marginalized. The acceptance I've felt within LinkedIn's Chicago office has been truly amazing. This sense of belonging has prompted me to extend my efforts beyond my role. My involvement in ERGs is about more than just personal growth—it's about giving back and fostering an environment where others feel included. I believe in amplifying voices from all walks of life, sharing our experiences, and enriching the diversity that is our workplace community. With this intention in mind, I try to engage with colleagues beyond just work-related conversations. Be it a simple greeting or a spontaneous chat, I find that these interactions build bridges and foster a sense of camaraderie.?

?I'd like to kind of conclude by asking you what piece of advice would you give to someone in your position???

?Reflecting on my journey, I'm reminded that success is far from linear. My background, encompassing anti-money laundering, cognitive science, and even a stint in India, might appear disparate at first. Yet, each chapter form this unique story of my life. If there's one lesson I've learned, it's the importance of embracing opportunities that lie outside your comfort zone. Each step, no matter how unconventional, contributes to your growth and shapes your perspective. The diversity of experiences molds you into a more adaptable and empathetic professional, capable of thriving in a dynamic landscape. So, as I continue to navigate my career, I hold onto this wisdom, staying open to new paths and embracing the journey ahead.?