Her Story
About Margaret
McCord attributes her professional success to her desire and willingness to listen and collaborate, often bringing together diverse viewpoints in small teams where she values input from all participants. She encourages young women entering male-dominated fields to view their unique backgrounds and perspectives as strengths that enhance team performance. As she approaches retirement in approximately one to two years, McCord is preparing for a transition to the civilian workforce while balancing family responsibilities with her career.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Margaret
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think my desire and willingness to listen and collaborate. I usually bring in a room full of folks that think they all know what's right, probably 90% of them don't, so let's just all talk and figure out and do this collaboratively. I love to work in small teams. That's my jam and that helps me a lot, and so that people that do work with me, whether I'm their boss or not, truly know that I value what they have to say.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
To run a successful organization, it all comes down to communication. As a leader, saying something once isn’t enough. Consistent and coherent messaging requires repetition so if it feels like you are repeating yourself, it’s ok!
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Diversity in all manner (thought, background, etc.) is truly a strength. If you think you're going to be different, that's an attribute. You're going to see blind spots that other people aren't. They're going to come at things in a different way, and any team is going to be strengthened by that perspective. I encourage folks to go into areas where they think they may be different. It was certainly something I considered when building teams myself.
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