Initially, I had limited knowledge about Cisco, but I understood that the balance between my professional and personal life, which had been a hallmark of my career for the past five years, would no longer be maintained in my new role. As a seasoned order creator and supervisor in the telecommunications industry, I often found myself working extended hours of 12-14 hours, with little reprieve. Consistently exceeding expectations often yielded merely a fleeting expression of gratitude, yet simultaneously entailed significantly increased responsibilities.
Despite my genuine enthusiasm for the role and maintaining a positive mental outlook, I noticed that my work was not conducive to meaningful personal or professional growth. I pursued a profession that would provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose, allowing me to stay actively involved in my family’s daily lives and experiences.
Fortunately, I had the pleasure of knowing a exceptional colleague, my former coach and supervisor, who has since joined Meraki’s team. He eloquently praised Cisco’s revered tradition and introduced me to OneTen, a pioneering initiative that champions diversity, equity, and inclusivity across industries, empowering minority professionals like myself.
During our interview, the recruiter asked me directly, “What is your expected salary range?” Without hesitation, I provided a specific figure. What a puzzling question to pose to you? What’s the point of it all? Their words had a profound impact on my self-perception, fundamentally altering my sense of personal value.
Once selected for the program, I still had to monitor job openings becoming available through my designated recruiter. During this interim period, I took on various responsibilities, including sales and internship opportunities. As a professional editor, I would improve this text in the following way:
With family responsibilities to attend to, I also secured a part-time position.
Several months after the initial contact, I received an invitation from my recruiter to participate in Cisco Radiate 2023 at the Coda constructed Atlanta Tech Square. The Workplace: A premier event where black professionals, allies, and industry experts converge to foster meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and celebrate diversity, all under the auspices of Cisco’s Related Black Professionals Inclusive Group, with a focus on inclusive networking and community building. It was there that I finally grasped the essence of Cisco’s long-standing culture and heritage. As I expected an extremely formal atmosphere, I prepared to showcase my skills; yet, to my surprise, everyone was relaxed, friendly, and genuinely interested in getting to know me, despite being just a newcomer to the Cisco community. As the sun dipped below the horizon that evening, the air was alive with an infectious energy, igniting a fire within me that seemed to resonate deeply with my very soul—the perfect haven where I could be myself.
Despite being met with several rejections in my job search, I remained optimistic and applied to a new opportunity that better suited my skills, including additional internship positions and an entry-level role in the Associate Sales Representative – Cisco Sales Associates Program. Given that I was once rejected? Despite initial doubts and trepidation, I remained resolute in my determination to succeed for the well-being of those who depended on me.
Only a short while after, I was taken aback by the email notification inviting me to interview for the prestigious ASR-CSAP program. My recruiter contacted me to confirm that I was thoroughly prepared for the three-part interview process. Despite my calendar indicating a presentation, my assessors had other plans – a roleplay was scheduled instead. Despite the circumstances, I seized the opportunity to excel by demonstrating flexibility in response to changing conditions and showcasing my proficiency in identifying and resolving issues effectively.
As soon as I obtained my provident letter, I was over the moon with joy. OneTen’s training enabled me to enhance my proficiency in Microsoft Office tools like Excel, PowerPoint, and MS Word, preparing me for my new role by streamlining organizational processes.
As a Cisco member, I’ve experienced significant personal and professional growth, and have had the opportunity to engage with diverse levels of leadership. I wake each morning with a sense of satisfaction stemming from my enthusiasm for the workplace I’ve chosen, and feeling confident that my contributions are truly appreciated. As my partner teases me good-naturedly, claiming envy at the radiant grin that spreads across my face on my way to the office.
I now prioritize my mental wellness, confidently showing up for my family without anxiety, and have fostered a deeper connection with my partner and four sons thanks to Cisco’s work-life balance initiatives.
As I conclude my tenure in the CSAP program and embark on a new professional chapter, I’m overwhelmed with profound appreciation for the extraordinary odyssey that has brought me to this pivotal moment. I’m excited to start this new journey and eager to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic and fulfilling career with Cisco.
Are you fully prepared for the next chapter to unfold seamlessly?
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