Sometimes, the path we start on isn’t what we’re meant to follow. Before discovering my passion for speaking, I spent years in office roles—first in municipal government and then in a large international company. I worked hard, but deep down, something felt off. I convinced myself that office-related positions were my only options, so I pushed forward, determined to excel despite the nagging feeling that something was missing. I didn’t realize that “change” would be forced on me and that I would have a more positive outcome.
Then came a turning point that changed everything. While working in the contract division of an international manufacturing company, I witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of an economic downturn. Layoffs were sweeping through the organization, and employees dreaded the arrival of their “pink slips.” Only those at the management level received severance packages—leaving the rest of us wondering what our futures would hold.
If our division manager stayed, my department would be safe for now. But when he accepted an out-of-state position, our team was left vulnerable. Several engineers were reassigned, and I reported directly to the new division vice president. As you can guess, he wanted to build his team, which put my position at risk.
Sensing the uncertainty, I sought out opportunities for professional development. The company was offering a Dale Carnegie course to its sales and marketing team to help improve sales performance. I had no idea what the course entailed, but my instincts told me I needed to take it. So, I went to Human Resources (HR) and requested permission to take the course. The response? A firm NO.
Their reasoning: I wasn’t in sales or marketing, and the course didn’t align with my job description. But that denial only fueled a level of determination that I didn’t realize I had. I couldn’t accept that answer.
I went back to HR and asked again. Another no.
That’s when my hidden negotiation skills surfaced. I asked, “What must I do to get permission to take this course?” If I was going to be pink-slipped, I wanted to walk away with something valuable. HR told me I needed a Vice President’s signature—without specifying which one. My direct VP wouldn’t sign, so I needed a different approach.
A Chance Encounter and a Bold Move
Feeling somewhat discouraged, I decided to eat lunch at my desk that day. That decision changed everything. As I sat there, a Vice President, Walt Lewis, walked by. The name struck me—I had gone to high school with a “Steve Lewis.” Could it be? My heart pounded as I debated whether to speak up. Finally, I gathered my courage and asked, “Mr. Lewis, I graduated from high school with a Steve Lewis. By any chance, is Steve Lewis, your son?” His response? Yes!
That connection gave me the confidence to try again, but I still hesitated. I observed his routine the following week and noticed he took the same walk every Tuesday to connect with the engineers. I needed more courage before making my request. Then, during my volunteer work with the YWCA, I spotted a familiar name on a plaque honoring board members—Lewis. Could it be his wife?
The following Tuesday, I stayed at my desk again, with the Dale Carnegie training form in hand. When Mr. Lewis walked by, I brought up the YWCA and asked if his wife was on the board. Another yes. This time, he smiled, recognizing my attempt to build rapport. Then he asked, “Ms. Petersen, what can I do for you?” I explained my dilemma. Without hesitation, he said, “I’m all about women getting ahead.” Then he signed my form.
I did it!
I marched back to HR with the signed document—much to their dismay. But here’s what I didn’t realize then: my persistence had cracked the glass ceiling. My determination inspired other women to request similar opportunities, paving the way for change.
Turning a Setback into a New Beginning
With my pink slip temporarily on hold, I completed the Dale Carnegie “Effective Speaking and Human Relations” course. That course became the turning point in my career. Soon after, my position was officially eliminated. But instead of leaving empty-handed, I walked away with something far more valuable—a new direction.
Determination Pays Off
Some things are just meant to be! Don’t give up. When you combine determination with interpersonal skills, you create opportunities where none seem to exist. That moment in my career set the foundation for my future in speaking, training, and mentoring. Eventually, I was invited to help charter a new YWCA Board of Directors sub-board dedicated to assisting women in advancing in leadership roles. It was time to break through the glass ceiling—for myself and for others.
Your Fork in the Road
Don’t fear the detour when life presents a fork in the road—it’s there for a reason. If you’re facing career uncertainty, identify your passion and discover your intellectual gifts. Then invest in developing skills that enhance your marketability and presence. Your degree and technical expertise are essential, but your interpersonal skills and determination will set you apart.
What career challenges have you overcome?
Please share your story to inspire others to find their gift of grit!
