We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kayla Moultrie a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kayla, 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.
The best way I was able to find overcome imposter syndrome was to “do it scared” and belief everything will work out later. Also, knowing that my experience and hard work was destined to work out in my favor.
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?
I recently transitioned into the Tech world! Previously, I had almost 10 years of experience as a Social Worker. This year would’ve officially made it 10 years if I stayed. December 2022 I started my new position as an Implementation Project Manager for a global financial tech company.
The pivot was definitely an adjustment, but I quickly learned how many skills I already had. I knew last year around this time I wanted to work in tech, but I wasn’t sure where to start. Plus, at the time I was an Operations Manager for a residential program at my previous job which was a lot of work and barely any free time.
6 months later I have learned, really still learning, so much! I have a much better work/life balance, and I’m currently studying to get certified in Cybersecurity. My goal is to take the exam some time in September.
Also, by the time this article goes out the announcement will be made… I’ve been blessed with an opportunity to speak in August at a virtual event amongst collegiate students with a program called Black Girls Do STEM.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back I believe critical thinking, communication, and time management were the top skills that helped with the pivot but resiliency was the most impactful during my journey.
My advice are for Social Workers that are looking to grow in the field or change careers. You’ve got this! Understand that while studying to get certifications or possibly going back to school is helpful, you already have so many transferable skills that can get your foot in the door. Know the industry you want to work in, align your transferable skills and goals with it, and everything else will come. The tech industry can be tough to get into so also have patience.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My mom! No matter what goal I have in mind to pursue she is always right there to cheer me on, and also remind me of how far I’ve come on days where everything seems difficult.
My manager and a few teams members at work are also impactful with me succeeding in my role. Having great leadership at a job is very important to me so it means a lot to work with a great manager in my semi-new role now.
Contact Info:
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-moultrie-msw-3a6350123
- Other: Email for Business Inquiries or Speaking Engagements: kayla@theconversation.info
