Looking to make the next big career move in the new year? Tap into the expertise of author, HR professional, and founder of Latinas Rising Up in HR, Priscilla Guasso, who shared insider tips that will help you get clear on your goals for the upcoming year and establish a strategic plan to achieve success.

What big plans are you exploring and grounding into for your professional life in 2023? Research, reflecting, and assessment are essential to reaching our goals. We had a chance to connect with the author and founder of Latinas Rising Up in HR, Priscilla Guasso, to learn what it takes to set up a solid blueprint for our professional goals. 

As an avid networker, Guasso’s vision has been to connect Latina leaders within Human Resources in non-profit spaces, corporate, or as entrepreneurs. In addition, she believes there needs to be an increase in Latina representation in executive leadership roles. She’s not wrong – that lack of representation in c-Suite and leadership roles has contributed to the Latina wage gap, making Latinas one of the most underpaid demographics in the United States. 

In honor of your bold visions, here are a few ways to prepare for that next big professional step from the mera jefa herself.

1. Do the inner work first.

Before looking externally for the ‘right job,’ take some time to go inwards and get clear about what you enjoy doing and what you want. “It can be hard for us as Latines because we’re conditioned to always give to others,” said Priscilla Guasso. “We don’t always take a moment to really sit down and reflect on what do I really want? What do I enjoy? What am I good at? And what would I love to get paid for someday?”

Once you know where you stand and your values for your next career opportunity, you’re in a strategic mindset to find a good match. “Those doors will open because you’re being very intentional, which is why going back to that self-reflection is key,” she said. 

2. Put the company or organization you’re interested in through a vetting process.

Once you browse the internet to find companies that feel aligned with you, investigate them a little further. Online tools like Glassdoor are great for getting an inside look at what ex-employees have to say about the company behind the scenes. Priscilla has even reached out to employees directly to pick their brains. “I’ll say, ‘hey, I’m considering a role at your company, do you have five minutes for me to pick your brain?’ You’d be surprised how many people respond,” said the HR professional.

She suggests asking more holistic questions versus team specifics. What are the highs? What are the lows? Remember, you have every right to vet a company and ensure it’s a good fit. 

3. Don’t overlook leaders – they can make or break your experience.

So while you’re vetting job opportunities, don’t overlook the leaders. While you might find a company that checks all the boxes, be sure you’re asking the right questions to the person that could be your future manager. “It could be a great company, but the leader is what’s going to help you either move up or hold you back,” mentioned Guasso.

The Latina HR queen suggests asking: What type of promotions has your team had in the last two or three years? How do you develop your team? How do you receive feedback? How do you give feedback? Get clarity on the kind of leadership you’ll be operating under to ensure your growth.

4. Make bold moves.

Learn what bold means to you and your circumstances. Understanding the risks and taking care of yourself is essential, no matter the outcome. Priscilla Guasso admits she often struggled with speaking up. Her journey to build confidence has revealed tricks to help her step into her fullest self. 

“In the first two minutes [of a meeting], I need to say something. I don’t care if it’s, ‘that’s a great idea,’ or maybe I ask a question. I had to say something in the first two minutes because then you just don’t say anything”, Guasso said. Whether it’s a meeting, an interview, or at the negotiation table, explore tricks that might work for you. Guasso found that wearing red lipstick as her grandmother did was a quick fix. You’d be surprised by the little things that help you feel more embodied and in your power. 

Take control of your professional path, and know that you are worthy of your wildest dreams, amiga. If you want to gather more nuggets of professional wisdom, be sure to connect with Priscilla and the Latinas Rising Up in HR community.

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