Viviana M. is the founder of The Jefa Life, a career blog geared towards Latinas. Through this platform she provides professional development resources and elevates Latina stories. She is passionate about diversity and inclusion in the workplace, professional development, and ensuring the next generation of Latinas have the resources they deserve.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

As a child, I wanted to be a teacher. My aunt and uncle are both teachers, and that’s what I thought I wanted to do. In high school, a social worker was assigned to my family and me because of a family illness. I admired everything about her and how compassionate and kind she was, so I decided to major in social work.

Explain why your career path changed.

During my freshman year, my family convinced me to change majors since they thought social work was not lucrative. To be honest, I don’t think it had anything to do with money. I think they wanted me to pick a profession with more prestige. I changed my major several times and ended up graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in English. Not exactly what my family had in mind. Interestingly, even though I do not have a social work degree, most of my jobs have had a social work component. It’s funny how life comes full circle sometimes.

Tell us about The Jefa Life and why you started it.

Growing up in Central Nebraska, I didn’t have access to many resources and had to figure things out on my own. I’ve always enjoyed reading books and articles about careers but never thought they were talking specifically to me. Last year, I started my blog, The Jefa Life, a career-focused online platform geared towards Latinas. I want my blog to be a fun, welcoming, thought-provoking, and safe space where Latinas can access career resources and build community.

What has been the most amazing part(s) of creating The Jefa Life?

Hands down, the people I’ve met! When I created my Instagram account in May 2020, I had no idea I would meet so many amazing, intelligent, and ambitious women. Relationships are important to me, and the relationships I’ve developed since starting The Jefa Life have been invaluable.

Outside of The Jefa Life, what do you do for work/what industry do you work in? What’s the culture like?

I currently work at one of the largest freight railroads in the country. I’m part of a team that responds to critical incidents and helps the company reduce its risk. The culture is fascinating since it’s mostly a unionized workforce. Luckily, I get the best of both worlds. One day I could be negotiating with an attorney in Beverly Hills and the next day I’m investigating a railroad accident in the middle of the California desert. I’ve got both my heels and work boots ready to go.

Generally, how would you describe yourself in the workplace?

I’m an extremely positive person who remains optimistic despite challenges. I understand that there are circumstances beyond my control in this current business environment, so it’s important to me to be ready for change and have a backup plan. Relationships are important to me. At work, I participate in employee resource groups as a way to show my support for marginalized communities and as a way to build cross-functional relationships.

How do you think your colleagues (current or old) would describe you?

Last November, I visited my family in Nebraska and found a certificate my mom kept from my first job out of college. It was full of kudos from coworkers. They described me as someone who keeps a positive perspective no matter the situation, who is always looking to improve the way we work, who helps others learn from her experiences, and great at building relationships. Although this was almost fifteen years ago, not much has changed.

Do you have a personality trait that brings value to you in the workplace?

I look at life as one big adventure, which helps me in my everyday life, especially in the workplace. I’m open to change, I’m adaptable, and I try to remain optimistic. I look at challenges as opportunities.

Do you have confidence at work? Was it something you had to learn?

I have struggled with confidence throughout my career. A lot of it stems from not having the formal business education that many of my colleagues have. That was intimidating at first, but I quickly learned that a lot of the learning is done in the workplace itself. When impostor syndrome creeps up on me, I remind myself of my value and my unique set of skills.

What general advice would you give to other women in the workplace?

Every day is an opportunity to lead. Regardless of your title, you can be a leader.

What specific advice do you have for women who are afraid to ask for more when it comes to their actual job and in their paycheck?

It’s important to remember that people expect you to ask for more. There are many emotions surrounding salary negotiations, but it’s important to think about it objectively. My tip would be to set aside the emotions and look at the negotiation as a business transaction.

When it comes to your career, where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I’ve been thinking about this a lot recently. I always envisioned myself climbing the corporate ladder at a large organization, but now I’m strongly considering entrepreneurship. I want to grow the blog and offer a variety of career-related resources. Additionally, one of my dreams is to write a book, and I’d be so happy if I can pull it off in the next five years.

What do you think companies have to do in order to foster and maintain a diverse workforce?

Lasting change will require a great deal of vulnerability and humility. Company leaders first need to believe there is a problem and genuinely want to make a change. Without leadership support, there won’t be a lasting impact. C suite leaders also need to hold managers accountable for diversity and inclusion initiatives.

What inspires you to get up and go to work in the morning?
This might sound corny, but the opportunity of a new day—another chance to do better and learn new things.

Has your inspiration changed at all since the start of the pandemic? If yes, tell us why.

If anything has changed, it’s the intensity. I’m more motivated than ever before!

Can women truly have it all? What are your thoughts on this topic?

Every woman should redefine what “having it all” means to her. This means different things to different people. Some women don’t want it all— I know I don’t. From an early age, I realized that marriage and having children was not a priority for me, so I’ve been able to focus on my career, my friendships, and other things I value. When you truly realize what’s important to you, having it all doesn’t seem as insurmountable.

Do you have a motto or slogan you work by?

Titles come and go, but a jefa mindset lasts forever.

Is there anything else you want to say on this topic?

Careers are such a big part of our lives, and it’s so important for us to have conversations about this topic. Thanks so much for the opportunity to talk about one of my favorite topics.

Publish date: March 22, 2021