We recently connected with Erin Morse and have shared our conversation below.
Erin, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
In the beginning, joining a male dominated automotive software company, I felt an overwhelming sense of imposter syndrome. Surrounded by mostly men with years of experience, I often doubted my abilities and questioned whether I truly belonged in such a competitive environment. The workplace culture, while innovative,, sometimes felt unwelcoming to female newcomers like me.
To combat these feelings, I focused on three key strategies:
1. Seeking Mentorship: I actively sought out mentors both within the company, and through industry networking. Their guidance both helped me navigate and solve problems while providing me a safe space to discuss my doubts. By opening those line of communication, I realized that even the most successful professionals I spoke with had faced similar feelings at some point in their careers.
2. Building Confidence Through Knowledge: I did, and continue to, prioritize continuous learning. Any chance I get I participate in online courses, attended workshops, and engage with colleagues on projects that push me out of my comfort zone. Each small success—whether it was solving a complex problem or contributing to a successful project—gradually built my confidence and helped me realize my value within the team, and as a leader.
3. Fostering Connections: I made a conscious effort to build relationships with my colleagues.
Actively listening to people with experience that differ from my own are invaluable. Networking within the company and attending industry events allowed me to share experiences and gather insights. These connections not only provided support but also helped me see that I was not alone in my journey.
As I grew in my role and gained confidence, the idea of starting my own business began to take shape. I recognized that my experiences in the automotive software industry had equipped me with valuable skills and insights that could translate into entrepreneurship. I started to envision a company that would not only innovate but also foster an inclusive culture.
Transitioning to entrepreneurship was daunting, but I leveraged the skills and knowledge I had acquired. I developed a business plan, sought feedback from trusted mentors, and began networking within the animal welfare community. The challenges I faced in my previous role prepared me for the uncertainties of starting a business, reinforcing my belief in my capabilities.
Ultimately, overcoming imposter syndrome was about recognizing my worth, embracing my unique perspective, and taking proactive steps to build my confidence. Today, I am grateful for the journey that taught me resilience and the importance of supporting others in their paths.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Working for proprietary software startup companies provided me with a unique skill set that has been invaluable in my journey to start my own nonprofit animal welfare organization. The fast-paced, innovative environment of startups allowed me to develop a range of competencies, from project management to strategic thinking, all of which have translated seamlessly into my nonprofit work.
In the startup world, I learned the importance of agility and adaptability. Everyday brought new challenges and opportunities that required creative and quick decision-making. These experiences taught me how to pivot when necessary and find effective solutions under pressure. In my nonprofit, this ability to adapt has been crucial in addressing needs in the ever-changing world of animal welfare. I understand that the best ideas often emerge from diverse perspectives and collective brainstorming. By surrounding myself with individuals who excel in areas where I may be weaker, I have cultivated a strong team that complements my skills. This collaborative effort, both from the bottom up and top down, has fostered an environment where innovation thrives.
For instance, I regularly engage with mentors who offer guidance and insights based on their experiences in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. Their feedback has been instrumental in shaping my strategies and ensuring that our programs are effective and impactful. At the same time, I value the input from mentees and volunteers, as their fresh perspectives often lead to creative solutions and new initiatives that resonate with our mission.
Drawing on all my life experiences has also been crucial in understanding the complexities of animal welfare. My time in the software industry taught me to approach problems analytically and to value data-driven decision-making. I utilize these skills to assess the impact of our programs and to ensure that we are meeting our goals effectively.
In summary, my journey from the tech startup world to leading a nonprofit animal welfare organization has been a testament to the power of collaboration, adaptability, and continuous learning. By leveraging my skills and surrounding myself with a talented team, I strive to create a positive impact for animals in need while fostering a culture of shared ideas and collective growth.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Creative collaboration has been integral to my success throughout my career progression. I am always looking for new and diverse prospectives in my community to improve myself and my business. I thrive on helping others achieve their goals. If you are interested in creating connections across the non-profit and/or entrepreneurial landscapes, let’s share ideas! I can be contacted at erin@marqkcc.org
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/resQerin
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