Young professionals are in many different places in their careers—you may have just graduated college and started your first job, recently switched jobs and feel like you’re starting new, or maybe you are the head of your company or own your own business. No matter where you are in your career path—there is always something to learn.
If you’re looking for ways to build connections and gain experience, FLEX involvement is an excellent way to do that. We asked some young professionals to share how they have grown their skillset by participating in FLEX:
“Joining FLEX early in my career was a game changer for me,” said Rachel Stiller, past FLEX president. “I was able to build my resume with skills, which helped me move forward with my career goals. It gave me a safe place to practice public speaking and access to mentors who taught me leadership skills. Personally, it gave me a central place to meet other enthusiastic professionals and make new friends.”
“I’ve learned how to maintain a greater balance between my professional and personal lives by effectively delegating tasks to committee members,” said Lyndsey King, Events & Fundraising Committee Chair. “In doing so, I’ve also learned how crucial clear communication and achievable expectations can be for the overall success of a team.”
“I’m naturally introverted, so FLEX helped me get better at networking, meeting new people, and getting out of my shell,” said Aaron Ritsig.
“It has also given us opportunities to volunteer, get out into the community, and interact with nice people that we might otherwise not have met,” Andrew Ritsig added.
“I have been given the opportunity to attend socials, speak at FLEX Presents, and meet others, like me, who are new to the area,” said Hailee Amos. “Surrounding myself with others who are building their dreams, aspirations, and skill sets has impacted my career drastically. I’m a better communicator, speaker, writer, educator and overall, a better professional.”
Jarred Heuer, who was also newer to the area upon joining FLEX, added: “Breaking into a new place can seem intimidating. Regardless of profession or trade, the ability to connect with people is one of the most important skillsets one can have. FLEX makes it fun to sharpen that skillset and does so in a meaningful, communityminded way.”
So, what’s stopping you? If you’re looking to build connections, learn a new skill, and/or get out of your comfort zone, we invite you to get involved. It doesn’t matter where you work, what your job title is, or how much experience you have.
Reach out to us or attend an upcoming committee or monthly meeting.
This article was published in the Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange’s (FLEX) November 2021 edition of the FLEX Your Ideas (FYI) Newsletter.