Little makes us happier at The Second Shift than watching women successfully reimagine their professional lives, shift gears, and set their own terms. And when they do that while trying to make positive changes for women and workers everywhere, we get downright giddy. That’s why Tara Barnes is this month’s featured member. Add to that her tremendous work ethic, laser focus, and clarity of vision, and we think you’ll find her every bit as inspiring as we do.
Tell us your work story : Who are you and what do you do?
I am the Manager of Operations at an event and incentives agency, managing a team of eleven full-time Account Managers and Project Managers. I have had a bit of a unique career arc, as I spent the first ten years working in marketing and brand strategy, but within the last 3 years have shifted more into people and business operations after completing my MBA.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment?
Getting my MBA. I was an admittedly poor undergraduate student, with terrible study habits and a lot of procrastination. I wanted to elevate myself and my career when I was 31 and decided that more depth in business was the way to go. I worked full-time almost my entire MBA program, and also got pregnant and had my first baby. It was an immense amount of work, but I learned so much, both by way of actual knowledge and about myself as a professional.
What is the hardest challenge you’ve faced, work-wise?
My hardest challenge was trying to improve a negative company culture in a small organization where my co-leadership was contributing to the problem and making decisions that I didn’t agree with. I did my best to present business cases for changes and programs I was recommending, but I ultimately ended up leaving because my position was eliminated and I was asked to move into a role I’ve left behind in my career path. I was very close to my team and to their needs, so it was a sad decision to have to make.
If you could change one thing about how your given field operates, particularly with regards to women, what would it be, and why?
I’m in the unique position of working for a women-owned (and dominated) company in a field (hospitality) that trends toward being more women than men. One thing I wish I didn’t see in this field is how often women are judged and accepted for their appearance and not for their work performance. This judgment is non-discriminatory, as both men and women do it.
What advice do you have for other women who are looking to make a career change but are afraid or lack confidence? How is it on the other side?
Find a company you believe in and someone who believes in you. I had over a decade in marketing when an MBA classmate offered me a role in people/culture, and while it was a big leap of faith, I tapped into a passion and skillset I didn’t know that I had.
What continues to draw you to your chosen field and what do you hope to accomplish in the years ahead?
I like the energy of the hospitality industry, and there a lot of fun, creative problems to solve even in the realm of logistics and resourcing. I would like to broaden my operations experience across various departments, but I don’t necessarily see myself staying in this particular industry forever. I am very drawn to industries (non-profit) and companies making a positive impact on the world. I want to wake up inspired every day. My daughter has Down Syndrome so I would love to find my way into work that supports individuals with disabilities.
What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?
Know when to zoom in and zoom out. It’s just as important to get into the weeds on details and tasks as it is to step back and consider bigger picture strategy, and knowing when to do each is crucial.
Who has been your biggest cheerleader // supporter // mentor? (We love to spread the love here at The Second Shift!)
My current manager Shelley White has been such a breath of fresh air in my career. She supports, trusts, challenges, and empowers me, and is such a strong role model for a working mom who’s worked hard to get where she is today.
How do negotiate the balance between life and work when you are the one setting the boundaries?
Because I have two young children, work-life balance is incredibly important to me. I rely on crystal clear expectations and communication, both with my manager and staff. People know when I’m available when I’m out of the office, and that in general, I am offline and unavailable between 5-8 pm so I can focus on my family. I also respect my team’s family lives as well, so I try not to email or reach out to them in the evenings and on weekends.
How do you make work work for you?
I set my own limits and communicate them clearly. No one ever wonders where I am because my calendar is up to date. Because I manage the largest team in the company, I’m in the office 4 days per week, but I will ask for more remote days if I need them. I create time to take my kids to the pediatrician, drop my daughter off at preschool once a week, and work at her preschool once per month. My work from home day means I get to nurse my baby on that day, which is really special because he’s only 6 months old (and it’s one day I don’t have to pump!). I also make sure to shut down at the end of every day and focus on my family, and my team knows to expect that and text if there are ever emergencies. My family is incredibly important to me, as is being present with my kids and partner. I’m laser-focused at work and often work through lunch, so it’s all a balance.