Welcome to Corporate America

Three and a half years ago I decided to accept a job in the retirement industry working for National Benefit Services. In the last year and a half, I’ve held the title of Team Lead, Supervisor, and currently —  at 25 years old — Director.

Being as young and fresh in the industry as I am, I have had the opportunity to learn a lot in a very short time. 

First, it is an enormous blessing to have entered this fast-paced field of work, in a company that offers many training resources, a vast knowledge database, and ample growth opportunities necessary to succeed. I am fortunate enough to have had leaders and colleagues who encouraged me to affect change and make improvements, and who guided me on how to work with people to accomplish what was needed. Finding the right company to fit your needs and goals is important to paving the way for success.

Second, I have learned not to be ashamed or secretive about my age. Being young in this industry gives me opportunities to share different perspectives and experiences from my colleagues that can be beneficial in a team setting. Neither is better or worse than the other, rather we each have a piece of the truth and it is only by gathering each piece of truth that a complete image can be formed. I also soak up every bit of information and learned experiences as I can from my colleagues who have been here a while. Building and being a part of diverse teams that incorporate a variety of ages, genders, race, and cultures enhances the team experience and can provide a solid foundation on which to progress your career. 

Lastly, collaboration is a key to success. While each of my team members has an important viewpoint, I have found that many of the partners, financial advisors, and clients we work with also aid in my professional growth. I have learned to listen and value the concerns of others because they see something that I don’t. It is by working together and facilitating all our ideas, thoughts, and concerns that we can be more successful in the industry and continue to represent the value of this field of work.

Being in a situation in which I am young — including in the industry and in leadership — can be ostracizing. I have seen the shock on people’s faces and heard it in their voices when they realize how young I am. I have spoken with people who, afterwards, have dismissed what I have said. I’ve heard comments about the negative stereotypes of my age group in the work force. 

However, the vast majority of my experience has been with people who genuinely care about the people with whom they work and associate and who value others’ opinions, because it allows them to make a more informed decision. As it has been applied to me, I have tried to extend that same courtesy to others. I have found the most value and intrinsic success when I have cared about the individual rather than about cursory details that distract from who they are. 

Hannah Haynes, TGPC, CRES, is Director, Retirement Transactions, National Benefit Services.