Hometown: Flossmoor, Illinois
Briefly describe your role: Iman Jefferson leads GM’s east region communications for Buick, GMC and Cadillac. She plays a pivotal role in developing strategic messaging and storytelling opportunities for these iconic brands.
Q: Is what you’re doing now what you always pictured you would do?
A: I always knew I wanted to be in the communications field though my initial goal was working as a professional writer. I’m fortunate my role allows me to still leverage many of the skills I learned as a journalism student. It’s even better that I get to speak with members of the press every day!
Q: What do you see as the greatest challenges for women in your chosen industry? What are the greatest opportunities?
A: I believe one of the challenges women who work in the communications industry face is feeling comfortable in using their voices and truly speaking up. This issue is applicable to any field, too often, we silence our perspectives due to the worry of being viewed as outspoken, which can be perceived as a negative in a work setting. I think we’re in a unique time where conversations of inclusion, diversity and equity are slowly breaking down these old-world assumptions and barriers.
The opportunity is when these misapprehensions subside, and women or any person who may be considered a minority are able to bring their authentic selves, expertise and perspectives to work, creating a richer mosaic that will not only help an organization’s bottom line but also overall workplace morale.
Q: Who has inspired you in your life/career?
A: My parents have been a huge inspiration. I’ve been very thankful to be raised in a home where we discussed the news and things happening in the world on a daily basis. That ability to think critically and question current events coupled with the encouragement to write endlessly set an early interest in communications.
I also have several mentors that serve as my ‘personal advisory board’ (smile), many that I’ve known for more than a decade, who I value tremendously.
Q: What advice would you give to an aspiring professional?
A: The one advice I constantly offer is that if you make a genuine connection, the onus is on you to nurture it. Relationships are critical and take time to develop. I’m a big advocate of mentors and sponsors. It’s so important to have people who can advocate for you in rooms you may not even be in.
Q: What’s been your secret to success?
A: I don’t think there is a secret. What I will offer is that it’s important to continue to educate yourself. Be a lifelong student. The communication industry is undergoing a radical shift in how we communicate, the tools to use, the audiences and which channels to venture. Understanding the basics are the foundation but constantly challenging yourself to learn more will position you to be an asset in any situation.