Thoughts On Tenure On My 25th Work Anniversary
Yesterday marked my 25th Anniversary with the League of American Orchestras. An amazing milestone to be sure, but in today's fast-paced job market, where frequent career changes are often seen as a pathway to advancement, the idea of staying with a single company for 25 years may seem antiquated to many. However, this steadfast commitment to one employer has yielded numerous benefits for me that extend far beyond a stable paycheck. From personal growth to financial security, my time at the League has allowed me to benefit from an array of wonderful opportunities.
Without a doubt, one of the most significant benefits of my lengthy tenure has been the opportunity to develop a deep expertise in my field. Over the years, I’ve accumulated specialized knowledge about the League's products, services, processes, and culture. This extensive familiarity has positioned me to be a go-to resource within the organization, elevating my professional status and credibility.
In addition, I’ve found that building deep-rooted relationships takes time, and a 25-year career in one organization continues to allow me to form those integral connections with colleagues, clients, and industry stakeholders. These relationships have enhanced collaboration, facilitated clearer communication, and created a supportive work environment. Furthermore, my well-established network has opened doors to mentorship opportunities, collaborations, and even career advancements, both within and outside my organization.
Third… In a world where job security can be a bit ephemeral, staying with the League has provided me with a sense of stability. Being a long-term employee, I have benefited from a more secure employment status, especially during the recession of 2000-2001, the great recession of 2007-2009, and the Covid pandemic.
And finally, staying with the League for an extended period has fostered in me a profound sense of identity and belonging which cannot be understated. As I aligned my personal values with the company’s mission, I’ve cultivated a deeper investment in my work. Without a doubt, this alignment has led me to greater job satisfaction and a feeling of purpose, contributing to the overall well-being of our industry. For me, engaging with my company’s culture and community has transformed my workplace from just a job into a significant part of my life’s narrative.
I’ve spent half my life with the League, and all but 3 years of my professional career in this industry. I’ve seen colleagues come and go, watched former interns blossom into successful professionals, and have celebrated successes and learned from failures. I have made life-long friendships, been mentored by many, and have mentored many more, and my career has been all the better because of it!
Director at RPS, Planning
2wWe all needed this, this week Rappor!