We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jose Rico a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jose, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
When I first started my career, I felt like an outsider because only a few people looked or spoke like me in the room. However, I decided to accept and embrace my identity completely. I began to see my background as a strength instead of a limitation. This shift in my mindset boosted my confidence and helped me appreciate the unique insights and experiences I had to offer. I knew that knowledge and preparation were vital to succeed in the competitive world of politics. So, I dedicated myself to learning about political strategies, policy analysis, and current affairs. This commitment helped me gain credibility and make meaningful contributions in any professional setting. One of my most significant breakthroughs was realizing I didn’t have to face challenges alone. I actively sought out like-minded individuals who shared my values and aspirations, and together we formed a supportive network of friends, mentors, and colleagues. We encouraged each other and made the journey less daunting. In unfamiliar or difficult situations, I learned to adapt quickly. Being a minority in certain spaces came with its own unique obstacles, but I approached each situation with a determination to learn and grow. I turned setbacks into stepping stones for future success by embracing adaptability and resilience.
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?
Thank you for the opportunity to share my story and what I do. My name is Jose Rico, and I currently serve as the campaign manager for Lupe Valdez, who is running for Dallas County Sheriff. My journey as a political strategist and campaign manager has been filled with challenges, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding.
Being in the field of politics, I have faced my share of challenges. As a first-generation Mexican-American, I have often been looked down upon and ignored, but these experiences have only strengthened my determination. My diverse background brings a unique perspective to the table, allowing me to understand and connect with a broader range of constituents.
As for what’s new, we are currently gearing up for our exciting campaign kickoff on August 17th, and we look forward to seeing many friends, family, and supporters. We’re also preparing to host many community and volunteer events within the following weeks.
Overall, I am passionate about the power of grassroots organizing and its impact on people’s lives. As a young political strategist, my goal is to create positive change and foster a more inclusive and equitable society. I am proud to be part of Lupe Valdez’s campaign and to have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people of Dallas County.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three essential skills can significantly impact your success: adaptability, resilience in facing challenges, and a strong work ethic. Throughout my career, I’ve realized the immense value of these skills, and they have been instrumental in driving me forward.
Adaptability is a crucial trait that enables a political strategist to excel at any moment. Our work is fast-paced and dynamic, requiring us to adjust our strategies to changing circumstances quickly. Whether dealing with unexpected developments or pivoting in response to emerging issues, adapting is crucial for always being ready.
Challenges are inevitable on the job, and I’ve encountered my fair share of unexpected obstacles in random situations. The journey can be challenging sailing, from adverse weather conditions like rain, scorching heat, or freezing cold to simply having an off day—however, the true mark of a successful professional lies in their resilience. We can overcome these challenges by maintaining composure, staying focused on the end goal, and continuing to make progress.
Finally, success in this career demands unwavering dedication and hard work. In my experience, I’ve knocked on thousands, if not tens of thousands, of doors, engaging with voters and building connections within the community. The work can be physically and emotionally demanding, but the results are worth it. A strong work ethic is the backbone of making a lasting impact on political and grassroots organizing.
By honing these three essential skills – adaptability, resilience, and a strong work ethic – I’ve successfully navigated the complexities of my career. Embracing the unpredictability of the field, I’ve learned to adapt swiftly, turn challenges into opportunities, and put in the effort needed to achieve tangible outcomes. These skills have not only made me a more effective political strategist but have also allowed me to make a meaningful difference in my community.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
In the last 12 months, my career as a political strategist has undergone a significant transformation. Thanks to my passion and hard work, I have come a long way from my position a year ago. I started as a Volunteer for political campaigns and worked up to leadership positions.
One of my most significant achievements was being recognized as a Super Volunteer for several campaigns. This fueled my commitment to grassroots organizing and allowed me to assist a Judicial Candidate in the Democratic Primary Runoff. This experience exposed me to the complexities of strategic decision-making.
During this transformative year, I was fortunate to serve as an Office Associate in Houston. We worked towards gathering over 250,000 signatures to file a lawsuit against failed state leadership during the 2021 ice storm. This experience solidified my dedication to advocating for social justice and holding those in power accountable for their actions.
I then stepped into the role of Field Director for a Dallas Councilmember, where I implemented grassroots strategies and connected with the local community.
Now, I am proud to hold the position of Campaign Manager for Lupe Valdez, a county-wide candidate running for Dallas County Sheriff. This opportunity is the culmination of my unwavering dedication and passion for effecting positive change.
This transformative year has been a growth journey, gratitude, and seizing opportunities. Each step has prepared me for the next, molding me into a more adept and capable political strategist. As I look ahead, I am excited and ready to lead, drawing on the valuable experiences and skills acquired on this remarkable journey. With the continued support of those around me, I am confident in my ability to make a lasting impact and contribute meaningfully to the world of political strategy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_rico_19/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Jose-Rico/pfbid0a4pFCAJzTNj9Uw6edz1cqaAdKwVRnZUzpHqcwvUaBpFwYK4a71emmEVGUTGjyWzFl/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-rico-aa2667188/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jose_Rico19
Image Credits
Dallas Councilmember Omar Narvaez, Candidate for Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez, Javier Olivarez, Soraya Santos, Beto O’Rourke
