Taking Ownership Of Your Career

This is your last article/video this month!

Please log in or sign up to unlock 3 more articles/videos this month and explore our expert resources.

Rehmat Kharal
Vice President GTM Enablement & Sales Development
Automatic Summary

Taking Ownership of Your Career: A Journey towards Success

Life's journey is always rewarding when you have control over your happiness and your career. This principle was expounded on by Rahma Carl, the vice president of the Global Vice President of sales enablement and sales development at Harness, who shared her personal story on how doing just that enhanced her life significantly. Let's delve into her insights;

The Start of a Resilient Journey

"My journey started by taking the reins of my own success, and the place I am today is a product of grit and a growth mindset applied to everyday life". The journey, as Rahma Carl recalls, is focused on learning, growth, and staying true to her principles.

Understanding and Owning Personal Achievement

In any journey, the measure of success varies. For Rahma, the awards she has received symbolize significant milestones. From getting the 'best mom in the world' award from her children, to the Drum Major award for volunteerism presented by President Barack Obama and the Silicon Valley Business Journals Women of Influence Award. These recognitions were a testament to her immeasurable merit on both personal and professional levels.

Finding the Right Balance for Greater Success

Everyone experiences moments of cognitive dissonance in their journey to greatness. For Rahma, such a period came when she felt torn between motherhood and a pressing urge to advance her career. After a 14-year-long hiatus to raise her children, she decided to go back to work, largely influenced by the discovery of her dormant professional potential.

The Breakthrough: Getting Discovered and Overcoming Doubt

When Rahma first got an offer to rejoin the corporate world, she was worried about the unfamiliar tech industry. However, after speaking confidently from her heart at a volunteer event and receiving an accolade, someone saw potential in her. This chance encounter led to an invitation to join one of the largest tech companies in Silicon Valley.

Acing the Unusual Interview

From a discovery phase to a crucial test, Rahma shares her first tech interview experience. She was provided a box with a router and asked to research and present her findings a week later. 'Rahma recalls, "With my newfound resolve, I prepared like never before, presenting a story from a technical and business perspective." This hard work and diligence led to a job offer which went against her initial doubts about working in the tech industry.

The Journey towards Self-Advocacy

After earning the offer, Rahma faced a test of confidence and self-advocacy. She proposed her terms, outlining her non-negotiable need to balance work with her duties as a parent. As Rahma narrates, the company responded with not only acceptance but also a raise, reassuring her that rooting one's career path in transparency, self-advocacy and family commitment is possible.

Reflecting on Growth and Planning Ahead

According to Rahma, the key to a fulfilling career journey is self-reflection, proactive goal-setting, celebrating every achievement and accepting the reality that no one is perfect. The focus should be on what you are good at, your next professional milestone, and owning your current success.

Success Unveiled: Overcoming Doubt and Honing Strengths

Rahma stresses on the need not to compromise on self-advocacy, learning new industry trends, and developing a personal brand. “If you believe you deserve a promotion or a chance at a new opportunity, advocate for yourself,” she asserts. As part of this continuous evolution, owning successes, constantly learning, and understanding your strengths and weaknesses are crucial.

Conclusion: Your Success, Your Choice

As Rahma concludes, it's clear that taking control of your career path is a deliberate process that requires self-belief, resilience, and a perpetual appetite for learning. It's about owning your life, your happiness, and channeling your energy towards a purpose that aligns with your values. And most importantly, it's about understanding that your primary mentor should be you.


Video Transcription

Read More