Women's History Month Spotlight: Erin McCallion

What advice would you give your younger self? 

Ask questions. My younger self was very insecure and thought I had to come to every situation at work with the solutions. I put so much pressure on myself that I’d often burn out. If I could go back, I’d stop and ask for help, ask questions about things I didn’t understand and leverage my resources better.

What is something you wish you would have known earlier in your career? 

That leaders don’t always have the answers. Just because someone has a title that is maybe higher up on the org structure than where you sit today, it doesn’t mean they have the answer. But if they are a good leader they probably got there by asking questions and collaborating. So don’t be afraid to make a suggestion or give your point-of-view to a leader. More times than not, I think they will welcome the input and also see how you are developing as an individual which could help you move up the career ladder (if that is your goal).

Which woman inspires you the most and why?

Working moms inspire me. Before children, I had a full life, but it was a selfish one where I could put myself first all the time. With two young children, my life is nothing like it was before. Every minute of every day needs to be structured for me to succeed to my expectations. That might not be how every working mom operates, but I want to shout out all of you out there navigating your way through. 

How would you like to inspire the next generation of women?

As women, we are held to just high ideals. From the time we are young, there are expectations set on us in terms of roles, body image and demeanor. It's impossible to live up to these, nor should we strive to. So I hope by being my authentic self and sharing my wins and failures and life lessons, I can inspire other women to find confidence in themselves and stay true to who they are and live life authentically.