Jami Grant

I wanted to take a moment to reflect on how fortunate I've been to have had some truly wonderful mentors and managers throughout my career. Their guidance has been invaluable, and they've played a huge role in helping me navigate the complexities of the field. Of course, not every mentor or manager has been equally impactful—some experiences haven't been as positive. In those situations, I've always found myself turning to the mentors who were supportive and insightful, seeking their advice to help me move forward. Having reliable people to turn to and learn from has been absolutely crucial to my growth and success, and I am grateful for the opportunity to benefit from their wisdom. 

I wanted to share the most valuable piece of career advice I’ve ever received, which has continuously shaped my professional journey in a positive way. The advice is simple yet powerful: be comfortable and confident in speaking up when it matters. Never hesitate to ask questions—there’s truly no such thing as a stupid question. If something doesn’t sit right with you, or you get that familiar feeling in your gut, don’t ignore it. Go ahead and ask, clarify, and seek understanding.

It’s important to trust your expertise and knowledge of your field. When something feels off, voice your concern—not in an accusatory way, but with a spirit of curiosity and learning. Effective communication is key, and approaching these moments with confidence can open up new perspectives and create opportunities for innovation. Sometimes, just saying, “I don’t get this,” can spark a conversation that leads to a better solution or a fresh approach.

Another aspect of this advice is asking for help when you need it. If you ever feel overwhelmed or unsure, reaching out to the team for support is not a sign of weakness—it’s actually a sign of strength. Saying, “Does anyone have bandwidth to help with XYZ?” promotes collaboration and can lighten the load. Many people worry that asking for help will make them appear less capable, but in reality, it’s one of the strongest traits you can demonstrate.

I wanted to share a bit about myself and some of the things I enjoy. Dancing has always been a huge part of my life—I grew up taking classes in the city and performing when I was younger. That love for movement still sticks with me, and these days I enjoy working out whenever I can carve out some time. Reading is another passion, though I admit that streaming services sometimes get the better of me! I catch myself binging shows and realize I need to step away from the TV and pick up a good book, just like I used to.

Aside from that, spending time with my dog and simply taking a moment for myself are things I value. It’s important to pause, breathe, and do something good for myself, which helps me recharge and return to enjoy time with friends and family. I think we all need those moments of self-care to balance everything else.