Blacks In Leadership

On February 7, at the NJ Zone Conference on the New Jersey Institute of Technology's campus, NSBE CJAE organized a panel discussion entitled "Blacks in Leadership". Our distinguished panel included:

• Maurice J Brown, Director, External Affairs , Verizon
• Bruce Curry, Director, Corporate Headquarters Facilities, Johnson and Johnson
• Cary L. Hall, Jr., VP-Investments, UBS Financial Services Inc. 
•  Mark Settles, Managing Director, Diversity Recruiting Executive, JPMorgan Chase

If you missed what was a very educative and engaging event, here are our panel's responses to additional questions on leadership. We hope you'll be inspired. 

Mr. Bruce Curry

1. What does the election of Barack Obama mean to you as a Black Leader?

It will provide America the opportunity to gain our competitive edge in key science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. We have the opportunity to strive for excellence in all areas of Business and Understanding our President has been in our footsteps. We must continue to support our President in the area of Diversity and ensure we treat people fair. We need to focus on mentorships for each other and continue to support each other’s success in Business. We must help our communities we work and live in daily. Every must do our parts in Life.

2. What would you consider as some of the "do’s and don’ts" for young African American's aspiring to become leaders?

Do's:

Ten Characteristics to Effective Leadership:

1. Honesty and Integrity.

2. Clearly communicates expectations.

3. Recognizes and reward achievement.

4. Adapts to changing circumstances.

5. Inspires others.

6. Puts the right people in the right roles at the right time.

7. Has a passion to succeed.

8. Identifies and articulates long-term vision for the future.

9. Persuades and encourages others to move in desired direction.

10. Accepts responsibility for successes and failures.

Don'ts:

1. Don't do the opposite of the Do's.

2. Don't give up on your passion and dreams. 
 
 

Mr. Mark Settles

1.       What is proactively being done to develop more minorities within your organization so that they are at a level to attain senior leadership positions? 

Each line of business has a rigorous talent review process. Once completed, action plans are developed for key talent, and managers are held accountable to execute those plans. Some lines of business run programs to position their top diverse talent for advancement. For example, our credit card business holds an annual Advanced Leader Program, which is designed to provide managers an opportunity to improve their leadership skills in a meaningful, practical way. These programs are intentionally populated with a significant number of diverse talents. 

2.       If you had to work your way to the top again is there anything you would do differently and why? 

I would start the process of networking earlier in life. When done well, it opens up doors that you did not even know existed. 

Mr. Cary Hall

1.  Do you feel that you have had a positive effect on the community and if so can you elaborate? 

Yes. I believe through educating the community through my seminars about leadership, networking, professionalism, and the basics of financial planning I have been able to touch many lives. As a board member on several 501C3 organizations I feel I am able to affect policy and again improve lives in many communities on a wider scale. I have, and had many mentees over the years. I just hope I was able to motivate them and help them gain the confidence to find their own way and reach for their dreams 

2.       Are you comfortable with the classification “Black Leader?” 

Yes, I am comfortable with it, however, I am humbled by the thought of being perceived as a leader. I immediately think of the great leaders we have had over history and their dedication to the common good then I look at myself as one that just tries to give back on a smaller scale. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams. I hope that I help those that I come into contact with see their full potential.  

Black Engineer of the Year Event

In November 2008, Mr. Reginald Van Lee, Senior Vice President, Booz Allen Hamilton talked to New Jersey students and alumni about what it means to be D.R.I.V.E.N.

Recession-proofing your Profession

“If you go to school to become an engineer, you’ll always have a job”. Those were the famous words of my mother when I was an undergraduate engineering student at University of Pittsburgh in the late 80’s/early 90’s. Why would I not believe that to be true? After all, there is always a need for an engineer…….to build the countries infrastructure, develop new energy sources, and to develop new forms of innovative and creative technologies. Sounds like an exciting and secure career choice. However, the recent downturn of the US and world economies and the announcement of a recession have been devastating for many. Outsourcing, cost reductions, changes in the business paradigms, and poor investments all have resulted in many jobs lost. Excellent job performance doesn’t always guarantee that you not in jeopardy of losing your job. Why? The fastest way most companies have found to reduce costs is by reducing headcount. The reality of losing your job can be emotionally and economically devastating. Now what do you do? Many of your investments (e.g. real estate, stocks, 401k’s, IRA’s) have depleted no thanks to the crash of the stock and housing markets. How do you protect your self and your career from the uncertainty of this recession? To protect and rebuild your investments, you have to protect and/or re-invent your career.

Here are a few helpful hints for you to consider:

1. Expand your information base. Learn other skill sets that can help enhance your professional portfolio. If your current employer offers an educational assistance program, consider getting another degree, certification and/or professional license. Develop skills sets that can potentially help you in the job market. Also, think outside of your current industry. If you currently work in one area/sector, consider other opportunities in other markets.

2. Networking. Don’t wait until you’ve lost your job to begin calling contacts. Start making contact with people now. It’s the start of the New Year, give folks a call and wish them a happy new year! Build a strong networking circle within and outside of your company.

3. Trust your instincts. Many times we have an ‘idea’ that a change is coming in the company. When you get that feeling, don’t wait for the pink slip on your desk……start making plans. Call those folks in your networking circle. Remember, ‘it’s not just what you know, but who you know’.

4. Step outside of your comfort zone. Easier said than done, but you have to do it! Go to functions, talk to colleagues and get your name and face out there. I once told a colleague “I am tired of being a footnote on a slide, I want to be the person presenting the information”. Talk to your management about getting involved in projects with more visibility. Keep your eyes and ears open about meetings or events and ask to be invited.

5. Find a mentor. Find someone, internally and/or externally who can be your mentor. A mentor is that one person who can guide you, help you, take you under his or her wing, and nurture your career quest. A mentor is often in a position you'd like to be in and has the clout and connections to guide you to a similar position. To find a mentor on your own, identify someone you admire and respect.

6. Check job listings. Don’t wait until misfortune lands at your doorstep. Send at least 2-3 resumes out a week, either internally or externally. Get an idea of what the market is offering and what opportunities are available.

7. Relocation. If you’ve only lived in a certain geographic area or country, sometimes it’s hard to consider relocating. Keep an open mind to the possibilities and the opportunities. You never know what may be available.

8. Technical Memberships. Join organizations within your professional that provide technical workshops, symposiums, speakers. Again, this aligns with developing your networking circle and is instrumental in helping you learn more about the market.

9. SAVE, SAVE, SAVE. Remember the process of finding a job will not be easy, so make sure you save a little extra money each paycheck. I know you wanted that flat screen TV, but unless you have at least 7 month’s salary saved away…..JUST SAY NO!!!!!!

As a professional with a strong technical background, there are indeed numerous opportunities. Be creative and innovative not only in your profession but in guiding your career. Remember, you are your biggest advocate!

Peace and blessings!

Roxanne Powell

NSBE CJAE – Membership Chair