Embracing Feedback: A Turning Point in my Career Journey

Two years into my role at an advertising agency, I was gearing up for my annual review with high hopes for a well-deserved promotion. Little did I know, a pivotal moment awaited me.

As the meeting commenced, my manager, an invaluable mentor, shattered my expectations by sharing that the promotion I anticipated wouldn't materialize. I was perplexed, having consistently delivered flawless campaign executions and maintained a reputation for organizational prowess.

The unexpected twist?

During the 360 feedback review, it surfaced that I was perceived as difficult to work with. The reason? My tone. I was projecting an unintentional image of being cold, elitist, and entitled.

Why?

I was a young woman navigating a landscape dominated by experienced men. In my quest to exude confidence, I inadvertently alienated those around me.

What ensued was a valuable lesson in adaptability. My manager emphasized the significance of tailoring my tone and approach to suit each individual collaborator. The ability to navigate this nuance, she stressed, was crucial for success.

This revelation prompted a moment of deep reflection. I realized that people thrive and grow in diverse ways, and recognizing and responding to those differences is an art. The ability to adjust my tone became a cornerstone of my professional evolution.

Every day, I carry this lesson with me. The importance of nuance in communication has not only transformed the way I work but has also become a guiding principle for personal and professional growth.

Here's to embracing feedback, learning from it, and evolving into the best version of ourselves.