Phyllis J. Wright, PMP

I attribute my success not only to working hard and mastering my craft, but also to the mentors who supported me throughout my career, especially during my early years in government service. They recognized potential in me before I fully recognized it in myself and provided opportunities that allowed me to grow. Many of my mentors were White men who held positions of influence, and they chose to give me a seat at the table. I made the most of those opportunities by contributing my perspective, helping shape organizational direction, and demonstrating the value I could bring. Their guidance and willingness to invest in me played an important role in my professional development.

One of the most valuable pieces of career advice is this: Never assume your hard work will speak for itself. Be intentional about your aspirations, communicate your value, and build relationships with people who can help you grow.

Throughout my 38 years of federal service and subsequent consulting career, I learned that technical excellence and dedication are essential, but they are not always sufficient for advancement.

Looking back, one lesson stands out. Although I achieved significant leadership success, I did not reach the Senior Executive Service. I recognize that one contributing factor was not communicating my executive aspirations early enough or positioning myself strategically for those opportunities.

That experience taught me that career advancement requires more than being qualified. It requires clarity, visibility, strategic relationships, and the courage to advocate for yourself.

Today, I share this wisdom through my coaching practice and my work helping college students and professionals navigate the unwritten rules of career success.

My message is simple: Don’t wait for someone else to discover your potential. Recognize it, communicate it, and intentionally position yourself to fulfill it.

First, I would remind young women that they are enough—more than enough. Learn your craft, listen to your inner voice, identify your passions, and develop the knowledge and skills necessary to become proficient in your chosen field.

I would also emphasize that no meaningful professional journey is taken alone. Having people in your corner does not diminish your abilities or your contributions. When you partner with people who value what you bring to the table and genuinely support your success, you create opportunities to grow and achieve more together.

Finally, invest in yourself and your well-being. Do not allow your job to consume every part of your life. Make time to rest, recharge, and maintain your health so you can show up as your best self. And remember to give back. Do not simply benefit from the education, opportunities, and support you receive; use what you learn and achieve to help others along the way.

One of my biggest challenges is building a coaching business from the ground up. Although I have decades of experience and a clear understanding of the people I want to serve, gaining visibility and reaching the right audience in a competitive market can be difficult.

I believe deeply in human connection, so navigating the digital space and capturing people's attention through online content, social media, and YouTube can be challenging. I am working to build connections with the audiences I want to reach, including opportunities to appear on podcasts and share my experience with people who could benefit from my services.

At the same time, I see a meaningful opportunity to support the next generation through my From College to Career program. I want to help young people understand the professional skills and unwritten workplace rules that are not always taught in school, including emotional intelligence, effective communication, reading a room, and building intentional relationships. I believe this guidance can help them approach their careers with greater confidence and preparation.

Integrity, authenticity, and giving back are among the values that matter most to me. I want to approach my work and relationships with honesty, remain true to who I am, and use my experience to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Leaving a legacy is especially important to me at this stage of my life. I have spent decades learning, leading, and navigating professional challenges, and I want to pass those lessons on rather than allow them to disappear with me. Through coaching, mentoring, and service, I hope to help others grow, recognize their potential, and benefit from the wisdom I have gained throughout my journey.