One defining failure was my first job out of law school in a law firm. I didn’t understand what was expected of me, I didn’t how to read a culture to understand what constituted success, and I didn’t know who to go to or how to ask for help. Needless to say, I didn’t do well. After struggling for a few years, I was fired. I learned many lessons from that time, including being a keen observer of culture, never being a afraid to ask questions, and to particularly ask for – and not be defensive about – feedback, as it is a crucial way to grow and improve. Since then, besides becoming a partner at a different law firm many years later, I am in HR and am highly empathic to whether we are creating environments where people can succeed. They were all good lessons, it was great learning and it was worth it. #worthitresume #LOrealParis
Katy Wright
2mo
You certainly know how to create environments to help people flourish, know who they are and of course support and encouragement to be it like hell ;) x
It is unusual for someone as successful as you to share this sort of early experience, but it certainly helps dispel the notion that taking off like a rocket is the only way up.
Desiree Pomales
2mo
Cindy, you are the definition of observation, empathy, and most of all, a creator of how to bring talent to flourishing environment. I truly value and appreciate all the years of working with you but also am grateful to call you a friend. Thank you for sharing this amazing story 👏🏼
Donna Lue Quee
1mo
Thank you for sharing the wisdom gained from what was a vulnerable experience. This is yet another example of your authenticity as a leader.
Thank you for being willing to share this very personal and insightful life lesson. What is most important is how it shaped you and the work you do.
Emma Bibby
2mo
The GOAT ❤️ Anyone would want to work with you as you create the best environment to work in.
Wow, 'a few years' sounds like a lot of time at a place you didn't enjoy. What stopped you from quitting yourself before they fired you (apart from being resilient)? Anyway, looking at where you are now, I'm sure it was worth it 🤗
Great message about lessons learned. Failure can also be an opportunity for a “do over” sometime in the future. Awesome insight from an awesome leader. 😊
Marsha R. Bonner
2mo
Hi Cindy, Thank you for sharing a bit of your journey on this platform. Very insightful and authentic. I have been a "Cindy Augustine Fan and Follower" for many years and I truly respect and admire you on so many levels. Again, thank you. #thejourneycontinues #bethechangeyouseek #wecandothis
Bestselling Author: Return on Humanity | 20 years of rewiring talent to create successful company cultures | Founder & CEO | Human competency development | Speaker | Podcast: TIE Unearthed
2moOh wow. First of all it is SO good to see your name pop up here. It’s been too long!! Secondly, I love this post. There is so much here. The power of vulnerability, learning from setbacks and the force of empathy. Love all of this. I’ve just launched my book (which made it to the top of the charts in the UK, US, Canada and Brazil) and really feel you’d enjoy it. It’s called Return on Humanity. Just back from lots of interviews in London and heading off around Brazil next. Feel we should chat! It’s been ages. Would love to hear your news. Xx #ROH #ReturnOnHumanity