From Producer to Coach, Mentor, and Speaker: Michelle Enjoli
Someone once told Michelle that her dream job of being a television producer in NYC would take years to accomplish, that it’s nearly impossible. But not only did she land it, but she also got it even before graduating from college - all because of her love for connecting with people and coffee!
Michelle is a first-generation American who was the first person in her family to graduate college. She grew up an introvert, a reader and an observer which became the foundation for her passion for telling stories. The ability to naturally connect with others has provided her with amazing opportunities in her career, but most importantly gave her great insights.
From Journalism to coaching, mentoring, and speaking, she now guides and motivates others in navigating their careers through a competitive job market.
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Q: Tell us about your current work roles.
I am an international speaker and career mentor who teaches students and professionals how to connect to their next career opportunity.
Q: What led you to that career?
I’ve always had an insatiable curiosity and love of storytelling. I began utilizing it to connect with others and it continuously led me to career opportunities. About 5 years ago, I experienced a major career disruption where a company I had worked for decided to relocate its headquarters. This naturally resulted in job losses and a major change for people who weren’t accustomed to such a drastic shift in their careers. I recognized the need for developing certain skill sets in order to prepare for unexpected changes in your career.
Q: What is your educational background?
I have a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from William Paterson University in New Jersey.
Q: Did you have any life-changing experiences that led you to what you’re doing today?
Yes, I first experienced the power connecting can have on your career when I attended a presidential campaign while I was in college in another country. I learned so much from that experience and used it to enhance my career which led me to obtain my dream job as a television producer while I was still a student.
Q: How has your family and upbringing influenced your career choices?
I grew up in a large family where gatherings with relatives and friends were a common part of life. As a child, I watched my grandparents have many conversations over coffee with family and friends. The genuine conversations I witnessed never left me and that is how my love of stories and reading grew. While I was in college, I decided to pursue Journalism. I wanted to become a television producer because I wanted to continuously learn from others.
Q: What are you most proud of accomplishing?
I’m proud of the risks I’ve taken in my career. It’s taken a lot of courage, optimism and belief in myself to make drastic changes but it’s been so worth it.
Q: What would you say motivates you most to do what you do?
I get to practice doing something I love while helping others achieve success in their lives. It’s a win!
On Making a Career Shift
Q: How did you find the courage to leap from one field to another?
I found the courage through genuine conversations with others where I learned about their journey and asked questions.
Q: What has been the greatest challenge for you when it comes to switching careers?
The greatest challenge has been getting over the initial fear of failure at trying something new. I’ve now realized that the only failure that truly exists for me is not trying because I’ve grown and learned from every experience.
Q: What advice do you have for others who want to switch careers?
In order to find your passion, you have to look inside yourself first. It begins with being true to what naturally brings you joy and then using that as a foundation to connect the dots.
Q: What’s next for you, what are you looking forward to?
I’m currently working on a few projects including writing a book. I look forward to providing others a platform to have authentic conversations and learn the necessary skill sets for success today.
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Learn more about and connect with Michelle at:
Website: www.michelleenjoli.com
Instagram: @michelleenjoli
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michelleenjoli