13 Female Leaders Of The Conservative Movement Reveal Their Career Advice

Image Credits: Courtesy of Lisa Daftari

The conservative movement is lucky to have many accomplished women who can serve as role models to young activists. We often see these women succeed in their chosen careers paths and passions, but there is no doubt they too have overcome obstacles along their journey. They’ve made mistakes, learned valuable life lessons, and have risen to be the next generation of leaders in the movement. Whether you’re planning to be the next Congresswoman to take on Washington, or think of politics as more as a hobby, these female leaders have shared their favorite piece of career advice to equip you to be a better employee, activist, and individual. Empowered women empower women.

Alexandra Smith, National Chair for College Republican National Committee

“Be proud of yourself while staying humble. It’s easier said than done, but you won’t earn the kind of long-lasting respect that will propel you ahead in your career through likes and retweets. Any company, brand, person, membership, or organization wants to know that you’ll put them ahead of yourself. And don’t worry: if your work is good, thorough, and thoughtful, it will eventually be recognized by the people who matter. Put your phone away, so you can fully learn from and be grateful for certain moments. In our world of oversharing, humility is in short supply, so let that be what sets you apart from the rest.”

 

Emily Jashinsky, Commentary Writer for Washington Examiner

“Nobody cares about your opinion until you prove why they should. So many young conservatives seek outlets for their political commentary in the media, but in order to have a notable opinion, you really have to put in the leg work first, no matter how smart or talented you are. Study, read, work in the field, get active, then pursue punditry. And take advantage of resources like YAF!”

 

Ashley Pratte, Director, Media Relations & Public Affairs at the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) and Contributor, US News & World Report

“Networking is key to get anywhere in life, particularly your career. Go to every event you can and save those business cards, you never know who you will meet who could turn out to be a great mentor or resource down the line. No matter how high you climb up in your career, always remember where you started and how precious and valuable the advice and mentorship you received was. I’ve learned so much from so many amazing women and am all the better for it. Always reach for the sky and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something — you’ll prove them wrong every time. Let your confidence shine and don’t let anyone dull your sparkle!”

 

Crystal Clanton, National Field Director for Turning Point USA 

“Be known as someone who works incredibly hard and produces meaningful results. When you network, focus on building real relationships and finding ways to help people. That reputation will take you very far.”

Sara Gonzales, Reporter for TheBlaze

“Don’t be afraid to take risks, be bold, and remember that each “no” is a step closer to that “yes.” Work hard, stay focused, and keep your eye on the prize. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s worth the wait.”

 

Kelsey Harkness, Senior News Producer for The Daily Signal 

“My most important piece of career advice is taking initiative. Few people ever have the “perfect job,” especially early on in their careers. But instead of complaining about it (as many people tend to do), ask yourself why your job isn’t perfect, then do something about it. Before I was a journalist, for example, I knew I wanted to write about politics and pop culture in a way that is interesting and engaging to young audiences. So in my free time (and on my own dime!), I started a blog. Before I knew it, I was getting paid to do what I love. There’s no better way to prove passion and determination to future employers than by taking initiative in your own free time.”

 

Madison Gesiotto, Columnist for The Washington Times 

Mind over matter! In the pursuit of your dreams, you will frequently be faced with obstacles and adversity. Do not let these temporary setbacks become your permanent situation. Allow your faith, your mind and your hard work empower you to live the life you’ve always dreamed of.

 

Kimberly Corban, Sexual Assault Survivor and Second Amendment Advocate

“Find your passion and let it become your ‘True North.’ Everything you do in life should be done with that guiding direction to keep you headed confidently down the right path. When flippant promises of money, attention, or disingenuous fame, try to distract you from staying the course, you’ll be able to look to your compass and let it guide your actions. Life-changing causes demand hard work, time, and service above self-promotion. Your True North will always be there to remind you of this, you need only be willing to listen.

Lastly, don’t bleach your dark brown hair. Just don’t. Women tend to change their hair when something bad happens to them…and clearly, I’ve been through a lot of crap!”

Carolina Hurley, Director of Regional Media at the White House

“Do what you can’t. Meaning – do what you think you can’t do, do what others don’t think you’re capable of doing. That 30 seconds of courage it takes to introduce yourself to the powerful person in the room? Do it. The hours it takes to send 20 emails forwarding your resume to people you’ve never met? Do it. People don’t forget that type of confidence, you just have to be willing to show it.”

 

Lisa Daftari, Editor-in-Chief for The Foreign Desk

“When I first started, I heard two pieces of advice that would or should have deterred me. I was told that Americans do not have an appetite for foreign news and that kind people don’t go far in media. I am so incredibly grateful to have proved both untrue.”

 

 

Antonia Okafor, Campus Carry Advocate

“What I’ve learned during my journey as an activist is that you will have big successes as well as big failures. Embrace both. Learn from both. As long as you are striving for something you wholeheartedly believe in, success, change, and impact will come. Notice when people aren’t doing anything to fight for what you believe in. Get angry. Then do something about it”

Laura Carno, Author and Political Media Strategist

“Say yes to most everything, especially projects that scare you. You will be more successful by bringing others along with you and highlighting their achievements. You have nothing to prove for your gender; just go do what’s right.”