Convergint Women Connect Recognizes Rachel Griffin For Making a Daily Difference

I joined the Convergint Development Program two years ago. My career essentially started with CDP, which brought me from South Carolina to Omaha, quite a long drive from home. I wasn’t exactly a project coordinator but more like an assistant project manager, helping with various tasks. Later, I became the Project Manager and point of contact for a large customer, overseeing sales, project management, and service. So now, I serve as their primary contact for service, sales, and proposals for various projects, including new builds and retrofits. I manage all of the projects they have in Nebraska and act as a Program Manager for other states, handling communication and scheduling.

That V&B is probably my favorite out of all of them, and I believe it’s particularly crucial as a younger colleague, given that I’m only 24 years old. Integrity is something you continuously develop, learning not to get caught up in drama or negativity. It’s about consistently looking out for customers, even when leadership isn’t watching, building relationships, and ensuring the well-being of our business.

I also focus on how I interact with colleagues in our office and CTC, making sure they feel appreciated and included. I’ve taken on the role of leading our Nebraska Inclusion & Diversity Council, creating a positive atmosphere, not for praise but because I genuinely care about my colleagues. My decisions are rooted in my personal values and my deep concern for people. It’s all about doing things because I genuinely care.

The key to success in this industry, which is often male-dominated, is confidence and expertise in your field. Knowing that you understand the material, whether it’s utilities, electronic security, or banking, gives you the confidence to engage with anyone about the situation at hand. Continuous learning is essential in an ever-evolving industry. Knowledge is paramount, and acknowledging that you won’t know everything but will always learn, whether from colleagues, field experiences, or leadership, is crucial. Learning extends beyond certifications and formal training; you can gain valuable insights professionally and personally from those around you. It’s not just about what’s on paper; there’s so much more to explore.

The way I make a daily difference is all about caring. I deeply care about my leadership, colleagues, and everyone in my professional sphere, and I enjoying brightening their day. For instance, I remember small details like bringing Tootsie Rolls for a colleague who doesn’t even report to me, just because he mentioned they’re his favorite candy. It’s all about taking care of people, actively listening, and making them feel heard and valued. Caring is undeniably a significant role in my success.

Another big part of how I make a daily difference includes showing empathy and understanding for the experiences of underrepresented groups within our industry, like women and people of color. As I previously mentioned, I lead our Nebraska Inclusion & Diversity Council, so making an effort to improve their situation is crucial to me!