Julia Ching

How did you start building your network?

I started building my network by first identifying my goals and what I wanted to achieve. I joined professional groups and associations related to my industry, which allowed me to meet like-minded professionals. Attending events like conferences, workshops, and seminars gave me the chance to connect with people face-to-face. Social media played a big role in my networking efforts. I used LinkedIn to connect with professionals in my field, share my work, and engage in industry discussions. I also reached out to alumni from my university who were working in similar areas, which provided a great support system. Volunteering was another way I expanded my network. By volunteering at industry events and participating in committees, I gained exposure and met new people. After meeting someone, I made it a point to follow up with a thank-you email or message, and I kept in touch regularly to maintain the relationship. Offering help and sharing my expertise with others also helped build trust and strengthen my connections. I attended local networking events and meetups, which were specifically designed for building professional relationships. Being genuine and showing a real interest in others was key. By consistently taking these steps, I was able to build a strong and valuable network over time.

Did anyone ever oppose your career plans when you were young or push you in a direction you did not want to go?

Yes, when I was younger, there were definitely moments when others opposed my career plans or tried to push me in directions I didn’t want to go. For instance, some family members believed that a more traditional career path would be safer and more stable. They encouraged me to pursue fields like medicine or law, which they saw as more prestigious and secure. I appreciated their concern and advice, but I had a passion for writing and content creation that I couldn’t ignore. There were also teachers and mentors who suggested that I should aim for careers that were more in line with my academic strengths, rather than my creative interests. They thought I would be wasting my potential if I didn't follow a more conventional path. Despite these pressures, I stayed true to my passion. I knew that writing and managing content was where my heart was, and I was determined to make a career out of it. I sought out opportunities that aligned with my interests, joined professional groups, and built a network that supported my goals. Staying focused on my passion and working hard to prove its viability helped me overcome the opposition. Today, I’m proud of the career I’ve built and grateful that I followed my own path despite the initial resistance.

What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?

The one piece of career advice I wish someone had given me when I was younger is: "Don't be afraid to take risks and embrace failure as a learning opportunity." When I started my career, I often played it safe, choosing paths that seemed secure rather than those that truly excited me. It took time to realize that stepping out of my comfort zone and taking risks could lead to significant growth and opportunities. Failure can be a powerful teacher. Each setback can provide valuable lessons and help build resilience. If someone had told me earlier to view failures not as dead-ends but as stepping stones, I might have taken more bold steps sooner. Embracing this mindset has allowed me to pursue my passions more confidently and ultimately find a career that I love.

What is it like when your job gets tough?

When my job gets tough, it can be challenging, but I’ve learned to navigate through these periods by staying focused and maintaining a positive attitude. Here's what it's like and how I handle it: Stress and Pressure: There are times when deadlines are tight, projects pile up, and the workload feels overwhelming. The pressure to deliver high-quality work can be intense. To manage this, I prioritize tasks, break them down into manageable steps, and create a schedule to stay organized. Problem-Solving: Tough times often bring unexpected problems or setbacks. Finding solutions can be stressful but also rewarding. I approach problems by analyzing them thoroughly, seeking advice from colleagues or mentors, and brainstorming creative solutions. Staying Motivated: Keeping motivation high can be difficult when facing tough challenges. It’s easy to feel discouraged or exhausted. I remind myself of my long-term goals and the reasons I chose this career. Celebrating small wins along the way helps maintain my motivation. Learning and Growth: Tough situations are often the best learning opportunities. They push me to develop new skills and improve my resilience. I reflect on what I can learn from each challenging experience and how it can help me grow professionally. Support System: Having a supportive network of colleagues, friends, and family is crucial. They provide encouragement, advice, and a listening ear when needed. I make it a point to reach out and communicate with my support system, sharing both my struggles and successes. Self-Care: Maintaining a balance between work and personal life is essential. During tough times, it’s easy to neglect self-care. I ensure I take breaks, exercise, eat well, and get enough rest. These practices help me stay physically and mentally healthy, enabling me to handle stress better.