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The Subtle Art of Success in Corporate America


Corporate Reflection #1~ 

I usually keep this blog to highlight my reflections on life, relationships, and spirituality. However, I’m gonna start disrupting the content on here, to post realizations I have about Corporate America, as a relatively new graduate in the workforce. 

So many times, when we get really intense feedback at work, we have to learn to “grow thick skin” to understand where the feedback is coming from, realize it’s not personal, but given to us so that we can produce the best work possible and grow in the process. But sometimes, especially as a junior member, I get feedback that doesn’t really make sense to me. And when I push for more explanation on why I am being told to write something a certain way or verify something that I thought was already very clear, I’m just told to “follow the process” and “I’ll learn as I get more experience.” 

Recently I had gotten my documentation reviewed so many times and still I was getting constant feedback that was so critical and particular I didn’t understand if I was missing something or if the feedback was unnecessary. Not knowing if I should escalate it, I grinded my teeth and just did what I was told.  However, a couple weeks later, even though I was so worried and had gotten advice not to do this, I went to my manager and in a constructive way, explained what I had gone through. I asked for advice and clarity for the feedback I received. 

I was surprised by how supportive my manager was in explaining that he was glad I articulated my side of the story, that the feedback I had gotten had been too critical and not completely constructive, and that he would sit with me to go over my documentation and give me the standards that he is looking for.  I walked out of the meeting with a massive weight off my shoulder, and proud of myself for being able to concisely, and effectively explain to my manger what I was dealing with. I also took a moment to appreciate how blessed I am to have a manager who is willing to listen to my struggles, and invest his time in seeing me grow. 

I realized through that meeting that being able to effectively communicate is the basis to success in any career. We often think it’s our skills and our charm, and this is part of the package, but being able to address an issue, analyze your strengths and weaknesses, seek advice and mentorship, and SPEAK UP in a powerful but still respectful way, goes so far. 

This entire process taught me NOT to be silent. NOT to be afraid to voice my opinions and thoughts. NOT to let my age and lack of experience allow people to walk over me

I truly believe that the most successful people in Corporate America have learned the art of effective communication and not being afraid to voice their opinions. I pray that throughout my career I remember this instance and remember that my voice, no matter how junior it may be, is valuable and critical to my role and my team.

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