We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ericka Spradley. Check out our conversation below.
Ericka, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you chasing, and what would happen if you stopped?
I am intentionally pursuing women in the workplace. The reason is, so many women are not only desiring financial increase, they actually deserve it based on their performance and contributions to the organization. In addition, women are seeking meaningful work and fulfillment. They are craving roles and opportunities that fuel them instead of leaving them exponentially exhausted. Lastly, I am chasing women in the workplace because when I can solve for their financial challenges by way of salary and fulfillment in their career, they are more inclined to have fun. Now they have an opportunity to enjoy life holistically – both personally and professionally.
If I were to stop this work or stop pursuing women in the workplace, I recognize some women would struggle financially, their career advancement would be hindered, and that certain workplaces would wear them out physically, mentally, and emotionally. I cannot allow any of this to happen if I can help it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am the Chief PowHer Officer/Founder of Confident Career Woman. As a Career Management Strategist and Coach, I am deeply committed to supporting women through my online courses, 1:1 coaching, and published books by offering mentorship, guidance, and expertise that helps them navigate career challenges. As a result, women are experiencing career advancement, compensation increases, and are communicating with confidence and credibility in the workplace. In addition, I partner with employers via their Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Business Resource Groups (BRGs) to help them better develop, promote, and retain women.
I recently released Ericka GPT (EGPT), my AI Career Coaching Agent to give all women in the workplace access to career coaching. Having 24/7 support enhances their performance and provides access to solutions for their career challenges in a matter of minutes.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with God has shaped how I see myself. While I have an amazing support system and have been affirmed from a young age, I realized as an adult that society had mixed messages regarding who I was and who I should be. The perspectives around what a woman wears, how she looks, how she should behave or speak, and what she could accomplish professionally weren’t necessarily what I agreed with. I also noticed that as culture shifted, society in some ways expected me to shift as well. Because I didn’t want to lose myself in labels and in the expectations of others, I decided to adopt a more consistent perspective. I needed a firm foundation to support who I was becoming and what I would later build.
The Bible tells me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made; that I am a masterpiece. The beauty in this for me is that masterpieces are flawed, yet are still considered valuable. In knowing this, I can authentically be myself every day, regardless of the rooms I enter, knowing that I am sufficient.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
Today! I have to talk myself into working out or exercising more often than not because I do not enjoy it. However, I know it’s one of the best things I can do for myself. 2 short years ago, I was 187 pounds and my triglycerides were at heart attack and stroke levels. Having lost 30 lbs and am now healthier than I’ve been in quite some time, I recognize the importance of prioritizing a healthy lifestyle that is fueled by daily decisions.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
This is an interesting question. I am reminded of an instance when I met a client in NY, in person for the first time. She said, “WOW! You’re just like you are online!” I was surprised to hear her say this, as I thought to myself, “Who else am I supposed to be?” Then I remembered that just because one of my values is integrity and I’m comfortable in my skin, it doesn’t mean that everyone else is walking in authenticity.
With this in mind, I will say that the public version is a piece of who I am. I am multi-faceted, as most human beings tend to be; therefore, I share the pieces of myself that are appropriate for the environment I’m in.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. My standards don’t change because of someone else’s applause. I don’t do this work for the compliments, I do it because I was created for a purpose and am called to it. My praise comes in the form of women being paid for the work they do, getting the promotion they deserve, and achieving work-life balance so they can prioritize their personal life while making PowHer Moves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.confidentcareerwoman.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericka-spradley
- Other: Ericka GPT (EGPT): https://erickagpt.com/
Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/confident-career-woman-ericka-spradley–2047933
Website: https://erickaspradley.com/
