Woman of the Week ~Robbie Banks

Our Woman of the Week now includes Career advice, insights, and feedback from our clients and friends.  Meet Robbie Banks, Director of Community Impact at COTA.

Best Mentor/Sponsor in your Life: Janelle Coleman. She is supportive, generous with her time, and one of my biggest cheerleaders.

Most Stressful Time in your Career: During the pandemic, I had to move the organization’s programming from 100% in-person to completely virtual within a few days. Successfully leading the organization–even as a team of one for a few months–during uncertain times was extremely challenging mentally and emotionally. But the best outcome from this time in my career was learning that I can do hard things.

Best Career Advice You’ve Received: In my mid-twenties, my boss and I were invited to a four-person meeting, but I did not speak during the meeting aside from introducing myself because I did not have anything valuable to contribute. The meeting organizer (someone that I knew) pulled me aside after and advised me to be sure to speak up in settings, especially when I am among leaders. If I do not have anything to add to the conversation, I will ask a thoughtful question. I am no longer challenged with speaking up!