Breaking Barriers in the Big Leagues: How to Succeed at a High Level

It can be daunting to think about all the possibilities for your future career. As women in business, we are successfully working in a historically male-dominated field. It is crucial to use the advice from successful women to our advantage so that we too can thrive in the business world. However, as more women rise to influential positions in the corporate world, they are proving that breaking barriers is not just a possibility—it's an imperative. Women bring a diverse set of skills and perspectives to the table, which are invaluable in the business and finance sectors. Whether it’s the ability to multitask effectively, lead with empathy, or approach problems with a fresh perspective, these traits can give women an edge in decision-making and leadership.  

Jessie Hu, an Ohio State Alumni who graduated in 2020 with a bachelor's degree in Finance and a master’s certificate in Human Resources, shared advice on how to dive into the corporate world. As a personal banker for JP Morgan Chase, Hu has paved her way into one of the most prestigious financial institutions in the world. Through her time navigating the world of business, Hu has acquired a few pieces of advice along the way. 

Finding the right space for you is the most important part of any lifestyle. Combining what you love with your occupation can be the best thing you can do for yourself. Hu found an in-between in her own life, “I chose to enter the finance world because it offers the opportunity to analyze complex scenarios, develop strategic solutions, and influence significant decisions. Additionally, working at Chase Bank allows me to connect with fellow Chinese people and assist them in Mandarin, which makes the experience even more rewarding.” Loving what you do can often lead to being better at it. You are more likely to be productive and energetic about day-to-day tasks if they connect to things that you enjoy outside of work. 

In so many of our lives, we struggle to find a work-life balance that helps us maintain productivity and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. For Hu, a great way to stay collected was setting a timer in two-hour increments throughout the day. “When the timer goes off, I make sure to step outside, do some jump rope, or take a walk around the building.” Giving your mind a break can increase productivity throughout your day!

"Believe in your skills and contributions. Walk into rooms, meetings, and discussions knowing you deserve to be there." This mindset can help women flourish in their careers. Too often in their lives, women second guess their worth, always feeling the need to prove themselves to their male counterparts. Reworking your mindset to remind yourself that you belong in every room you walk into, you empower the space with your talent, and your contributions will always move things forward; taking up space is your right. Success is not just measured by having the right expertise and a great resume, it is about owning the hard work you put in that produced  amazing achievements.

In an industry as dynamic and fast-paced as business and finance, continuous learning is a necessity. The most successful women in high-level roles are those who prioritize professional development and staying informed. In a world that is constantly changing both socially and technologically, the best person for any job is a person who is willing to keep up with innovations in the world. Not only will learning new skills throughout the years benefit your qualifications, but it will also spur personal growth and form a unique kind of resilience that will benefit you in the long run. 

With the right mindset, ability, and tenacity, breaking into the business world can be the best thing you can do for yourself, and in turn, others. By being the absolute best version of yourself, you are helping others do the same, just as iron sharpens iron. But iron cannot sharpen one another if both sides are dull, so strive for the extraordinary in life for yourself and empower others to do the same.