LETTER FROM THE CHAIR

The Bright Light of PWH®

As I weaved my way through the first jetway in months (and into a sea of masks), it hit me. I reached the light at the end of the tunnel. I exhaled with such joy that I now serve as a leader for a progressive company, especially in such an unprecedented time. 2020 will forever represent a year of change, disruption and reflection. Many talented professionals have experienced a furlough, reduced compensation or a workforce reduction. It can happen to the best of us. Thriving through this experience is all about mindset, attitude and rising above the situation to find the next work home.

During the spike of the Coronavirus Global Pandemic, I received notice that I was part of a workforce reduction. I felt like I had fallen pretty hard. However, a voice inside told me to get right back up and push ahead to search for my next adventure. Immediately, I thought of my professional network. I assembled a list of my top 100 relationships and began reaching out via LinkedIn, text, email, phone – perhaps a few smoke signals too! I requested 15-minute discussions

Rachelle Ferrara

to gain professional insights. To my surprise, I was flooded with responses and packed my calendar with calls to share my current status, catch up, and gain advice to attain my next dream job. Each discussion resulted in two or more contacts to follow up with. I was suddenly being introduced to hiring managers and key industry leaders who were all willing to help. My summer was inundated with calls, interviews, exploratory discussions and even virtual meetings—I worked so hard. The adrenaline and focused energy

Lean on PWH® to guide you to developing an enriched professional network. We will help you navigate through the darkest tunnels when you are faced with change.

drained me a little bit, but I remained focused. I scheduled calls all day long as if it were my normal work routine. I allowed myself time to take short breaks to keep my head clear. Throughout all of the discussions and interviews, I learned a great deal about our industry, business models and leadership styles while gaining a great perspective on how others were coping during the pandemic. My spirit was restored, and I realized how grateful I am for my trusting relationships, mentors and all of the encouraging voices who lifted me during this time of uncertainty. As a result, I was offered multiple opportunities, which led to the next challenge: deciding on the perfect company and role fit. I am grateful that I invested in myself as a member of PWH®, which contributed to my priceless professional relationships, credibility and, ultimately, an awesome new role!

If you are in this situation, do not fret. There is a light at the end of the tunnel… or a jetway in my case! Today, we might be limited to attending conferences, summits and traditional networking events due to the global pandemic. Do not let this prevent you from connecting with others. Pick up the phone. Fully utilize LinkedIn. My professional network has been my lifeline. We all fall on occasion, but it’s about how we get up and rise to the next level. Lean on PWH® to guide you to developing an enriched professional network. We will help you navigate through the darkest tunnels when you are faced with change. I would love to hear your story of survival! Please drop me a line: PWHChair@mypwh.org.

Let’s keep inspiring each other!

Cheers, Rachelle Ferrara PWH® Chair 2019-2020