Tina Nasseri

With over 27 years of experience in the legal and recruiting sectors, complemented by both a B.A. and M.A. in Political Science and Government, I have cultivated a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges confronting our communities. My professional journey has deepened my commitment to service and reinforced a fundamental principle: meaningful impact is measured not by the quantity we give, but by our willingness to contribute what we can.

As a first-generation immigrant, I have personally encountered many of the challenges faced by immigrant youth adapting to a new society. These experiences have shaped my dedication to mentoring and supporting immigrant young people, as well as advocating for unhoused single mothers and their children.

I am actively involved in civic and political initiatives that reflect these values. Most recently, I supported Sam Liccardo in his congressional campaign. During his tenure as Mayor of San Jose, I observed firsthand his commitment to addressing homelessness and housing instability within the community.

Giving back is not merely an interest but a lifelong commitment grounded in both personal experience and professional purpose.

Focus on learning. Listen carefully. Develop the ability to handle conflict professionally and stay out of office gossip. Seek feedback regularly — don’t wait for your supervisor to come to you. Take initiative and ask, “How can I improve?” Success is rarely achieved alone. Learn how to work in teams. Build relationships with your co-workers, teammates, and office staff — even those in other departments or on different floors. The way you collaborate will define your reputation. Remember: most people may not remember exactly what you did, but they will always remember how you made them feel. Treat everyone with respect. Be reliable. Be professional. Character travels faster than talent. Save money. Start investing as soon as you can. Financial stability gives you choices and confidence. As you grow in your career, discover what matters to you and use your skills to serve your community. True success is not only about personal achievement — it is about impact.

Be professional. Treat people with respect. Be a team player. Take initiatives. Offer to help. Understand the system and learn the procedures. Study your cases and read the law. Read policies. Maintain composure during conflict. Do not isolate yourself. Visibility matters specially if you’re on a management role. Find out what is the next step. Mentor and do volunteer work related to your work and passion.  

One of the most significant challenges in government management today is career progression. Advancement within public sector environments can be complex and influenced by factors beyond performance alone. Unlike the corporate sector, where upward mobility is often more directly tied to measurable performance, leadership initiative, and results-driven change management, the path in government can be less linear and less transparent.

In the corporate environment, strong performance, decision-making ability, and demonstrated leadership often translate more predictably into advancement opportunities. In contrast, government organizations operate within additional layers of policy, oversight, and public accountability, which can slow structural change and limit immediate upward movement.

Success in this environment demands patience, strategic relationship-building, and an ability to lead influence — not just authority.

While the advancement model may be less straightforward, the opportunity to create lasting public impact and serve the community remains one of the most meaningful aspects of government leadership.

The values that guide both my professional and personal life center on integrity, compassion, accountability, and service. Above all, I believe that how people remember you matters more than any title you hold. I strive to be remembered as a supportive mentor, a compassionate leader, and a hardworking professional who leads with both strength and empathy. Leadership, to me, is not about authority — it is about responsibility.

I value being someone others can rely on. Whether within an organization or in my personal relationships, I aim to build trust through consistency, fairness, and follow-through. I believe in working diligently, treating people with respect, and creating environments where others feel supported and empowered to grow.

Ultimately, success is not defined only by accomplishments, but by the positive and lasting impact we leave on people.