Career Advice from Four Women at American Century
Building a successful career, and a robust savings account, is a challenge for anyone. It helps to learn from people who have done it.
Stephanie Atkinson, Client Business Management Consultant
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of my mentors from college would say “culture eats strategy for breakfast.” I have found this to be true in every workplace environment I have encountered. While strategic planning is crucial, it can only go so far in the face of the daily dynamics and human elements that shape a work environment. That’s why I pay close attention to a workplace’s atmosphere.
What is the biggest challenge for women entering a male-dominated industry?
Striking a balance between authenticity and conformity to traditional expectations. One of the things that has helped me is forming mentor relationships with women whom I admire. Having female role models has helped me counteract the pressure to conform to pre-existing notions of success within the industry.
If a female college student asked you for advice on how to start a finance career, what would you tell her?
Pay attention to the industry as a whole and keep yourself competitive when it comes to education and skills. The best way to get reliable insights is by forming relationships with peers as well as mentors. A good groundwork for success is a combination of aiming yourself in the direction of where the industry is going as well as knowing how to advocate for and market yourself while pursuing your first job out of school.
Sarah Cossa, Chief People Officer
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to receive valuable advice that has resonated with me. Here are a few gems that have consistently proven their worth:
Embrace every challenge: Instead of viewing difficulties as roadblocks, see them as opportunities for growth. The toughest situations often harbor the most profound lessons. Before you throw in the towel, remember that the lesson you seek may lie within the current challenge.
Prioritize continuous growth: Never become complacent. Continuously seek opportunities for learning and personal development. Embrace challenges and actively pursue new avenues for growth.
Maintain focus: Identify your goals and eliminate distractions to efficiently accomplish tasks. The ability to deliver results promptly and effectively is invaluable. However, remember the importance of leadership and collaboration; success often hinges on one’s ability to bring others along.
Stay grounded: It’s crucial to remain true to yourself. Authenticity is key; people can discern insincerity from a mile away. Strive to do your best, even when faced with uncertainty, and prioritize integrity in every decision.
What do you know now that you wish you knew as a new college graduate or in an earlier stage of your career?
It’s OK to be wrong; it’s not OK to not try.
Among all other things, learn to get things done quickly, efficiently and collaboratively.
A successful idea is one that not only aligns with the current environment but is also executed effectively.
Learn how to be a stellar teammate, not a shiny star.
ALWAYS keep your sense of humor.
Keep moving. Many things will be out of your control or won’t go as planned.
Tanya Sargeon, VP Business Re-Engineering
As young women begin their careers, what is one thing they can do to lay the groundwork for financial success?
Understand your finances and be able to manage them yourself. Consider yourself a bill and pay yourself first by saving and investing. The earlier you start, the better. If you don’t understand finances, get a professional to help you or teach yourself. Our founder, Jim Stowers, has books that can help. Bottom line: Don’t delegate this important task to anyone without fully understanding what’s happening.
What is the biggest challenge for women entering a male-dominated industry?
One of the biggest challenges is not feeling like you belong or that you haven’t earned the right to be there. Imposter syndrome is real and affects many people. Another challenge is not having a mentor who can help you walk through doors that are traditionally locked unless you know the right people. If you cultivate real relationships, you will be surprised how they will help you, and in turn, you will be able to help others.
If a female college student asked you for advice on how to start a finance career, what would you tell her?
First, I would ask her to define “finance career.” I work for a financial company, but I would never say I have a career in finance. For any career you want, take time to understand the possibilities. There are so many ways to have a career in the finance world, so understanding your passions, what drives you, and what you want to get out of any career is necessary.
What has been one of the biggest challenges of your career so far?
The biggest challenge was moving from an individual contributor to a management role. Managing people who were once your teammates and shifting the relationship was extremely difficult at first. But now I have had the opportunity to change things we had been complaining about and handle new complaints. Seeing situations from both sides was eye-opening and humbling. I have learned so much and am still learning!
What do you know now that you wish you knew as a new college graduate or in an earlier stage of your career?
I wish I had been more vocal about what I brought to the table. I did my job and hoped someone would notice. Today, I acknowledge my own accomplishments for others. We tend to feel if we tout our own abilities or what we have done, we are bragging. Well, brag then, because sometimes those who make decisions are busy and can miss how special you are.
Susie Morris, VP, Co-Head Internal Sales
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Be a student of business. Focus on continually learning, adapting to change, building strong relationships, and pursuing work that aligns with your passions and values.
As young women begin their careers, what is one thing they can do to lay the groundwork for financial success?
I can’t stress the importance of saving early enough! Set yourself up for financial success by saving and maximizing your retirement plan, starting a 529 if and when you need to, and outlining short- and longer-term goals from day one of your career. Ensure you have a plan and stay true to that.
What is the biggest challenge for women entering a male-dominated industry?
Ensure you have a voice and your ideas are heard. Navigating a predominantly male-oriented culture and networking opportunities is part of the equation. You need to advocate for yourself, find allies, and mentors. Do what you can to create an inclusive working environment for others.
If a female college student asked you for advice on how to start a finance career, what would you tell her?
Be open minded and take the time to educate yourself on the possibilities within financial services, as there are various ways you can apply your skills to this industry—much broader than many realize.
Use your network, join clubs within your major, and take advantage of the resources available through your career resource center. Network with people in the industry, apply for internship roles so you can obtain exposure to various aspects of the business, and ask questions!
The opinions expressed are those of American Century Investments (or the portfolio manager) and are no guarantee of the future performance of any American Century Investments' portfolio. This material has been prepared for educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal or tax advice.
You could lose money by investing in a mutual fund, even if through your employer's plan or an IRA. An investment in a mutual fund is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.