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Five Guiding Principles to Leadership
Secrets to Success
Through professional development, mentorship and other guiding principles to leadership advancement, Annette Martinez, 2002 NHLI Executive Leadership Program graduate, has escalated to the highest levels of the leadership ladder. A 21 years State Farm executive, Martinez recently became the highest ranking Latina at State Farm Insurance Companies as Vice President-Operations, Human Resources at the corporate office.
The year Martinez participated in NHLI’s leadership program was a year of adjustment. She attributes NHLI for helping change her focus. As Martinez was rediscovering herself and her strength, it became important for her to understand who she truly was and to represent this self at all times. “I left the NHLI program with more clarity; almost as if someone shook me. I realized that my Latina identity allows me to bring something different to the table. This program made an everlasting impact on me personally, professionally and throughout my community.”
An accomplished corporate professional and extraordinary Latina leader, Martinez unquestionably understands the right steps to getting ahead and fulfilling personal and professional dreams while staying true to her values.
In this edition of our newsletter, Martinez shares her secrets to success:
1. Find a mentor and articulate your goals
I have been fortunate enough to have people around me who have encouraged, inspired and motivated me beyond measure. When I was beginning one of my new positions in Human Resources management, my supervisor at the time asked me “where do you want to be in the future?” My answer was: “I don’t know what State Farm’s plans are for developing a diversity initiative, but I would like to be a part of that work.”
I found that communicating and articulating my goals with my supervisor, who was also my mentor, was critical for me. You never know who is listening on the other end, fortunately for me I was soon promoted and moved to Bloomington, IL for a chance at launching the Diversity & Inclusion office for the company.
2. Become a mentor
Pay it forward. It is our obligation to ensure that future generations are well equipped and knowledgeable to run our companies in our absence.
3. Spread your wings
To advance in your career, it is critical to try new ventures and take risks. Seek out new opportunities and challenges within your company or other places – wherever you envision making a difference. We all have to make choices. Although some choices may require a little bit of sacrifice, it will pay off tenfold in the end. I sought opportunities at State Farm which opened many doors. In my 21 years career at SF, I have worked in several departments including Human Resource, Diversity & Inclusion and other key operational assignments that led me to a succession pool for Vice President candidates.
4. Create a support system: sisterhood/brotherhood
Create your own board of directors. It is important to look at the people around you first--your family, friends, mentors, co-workers-- and build each other up. The NHLI sisterhood at State Farm has provided a wonderful support network. To date there are 15 NHLI fellows who are employed with SF all over the country.
5. Find a company who shares your passion
I have enjoyed many aspects of my career at SF, particularly working at a company with strong ethical values. The company’s mission and vision of being a good neighbor, providing quality service and relationships, mutual trust, integrity and financial strength, align with my own guiding principles and that has never wavered.
More about Martinez: She graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in Biological Sciences. Her husband and 11 year old daughter inspire her every day.
About State Farm: Headquartered out of Bloomington, Illinois, State Farm was founded in 1922 by retired farmer and insurance salesman, George Jacob “G.J” Mecherle. State Farm is one of NHLI’s largest and oldest sponsors. The Company recognizes the value of NHLI’s Executive Leadership Program as a recruitment pipeline for talented Latinas and in meeting leadership development goals for its Latina employees. Currently, State Farm counts 15 NHLI Alumnae among its employee family, the largest number of any corporation.
For information on career opportunities at State Farm, visit www.statefarm.com/careers.
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