How I Made It, By Holli Rogers

YOU CAN’T BE AN EXPERT IN EVERYTHING

It is ok to not be an expert in every endeavour you take on. For example, when I joined Net-a-Porter we were all just figuring out what luxury online retail meant. Then when I joined Browns I had to change up my way of thinking, because I had to also consider a physical retail space. You can learn all kinds of things from other people, as all our points of view and experiences are different, so being open is key. To me that has nothing to do with age, it’s about diversity in general. I learned about TikTok from my nephew and Facebook from my father. It has always been important for me to work with people from all over the world, from varying upbringings and cultures as well as age.

DON’T BELIEVE THE HYPE

It’s easy to get swept away in the idea of what working in fashion means; I try not to get caught up in the perceived glamour that comes with a career in the industry. For me, work is all about the projects I am involved in, the people I work with and, ultimately, what you end up producing, whether that be on your own accord or through collaboration. I think I can thank my dad for thinking that way. So many people suffer from imposter syndrome, sometimes it takes a deep breath to remember you are not alone. One cliché that does particularly resonate in fashion is dress for the job you want not the job you have. And show you have a point of view; personal style is a part of that.

BE BRAVE IN YOUR CHOICES

Having an open dialogue helps to make brave decisions. Talk to your boss if you want a promotion or to move within the company. Be proactive and don’t be afraid to talk to other people about your progress, both inside and outside your organisation. That could be someone from HR or even more senior leaders to seek advice. When people know you they can be better advocates for you.

When it comes to money chat, I think it is important to be respectful of the process. Business budgets always need to be considered. Also, be aware of timeframes. Boldly asking for a raise in the middle of the year might not set you up for success. However, putting a thorough case together to explain why you are asking and being able to justify your position could spell success. Seek out advice from people you trust, to identify the best time to broach the subject.

If you have an interest in something, then follow your gut and explore your passions even if that means having a side hustle for a while. I have been lucky enough to have worked in fashion my whole life. I have so much respect for someone who can just start fresh and follow their dreams.

IT’S COOL TO BE KIND

At Browns we think it is ‘cool to be kind’ and being friendly is being kind. I always endeavour to know people’s names and I also think honesty is really important. Being direct and transparent will get you respect. If you’re in a managerial role and need to give feedback, honesty is key and whether the person is going to feel deflated is definitely down to how you phrase and deliver constructive criticism.

There’s no doubt that as a manager, this is something that I think you have to continually work on. No two people are the same, so there needs to be a clear understanding of the individual’s needs.

WORK AND LIFE SEPERATION

Work and life can be hard to separate at times, but I guess it depends on the role you have both at work and at home. I think you should always strive to bring empathy and kindness to both situations. We all know things happen in our private life that sometimes impact our work. However, for me it is important to be transparent and share your thoughts with close colleagues so people know where your head is at and can provide the necessary support. We are all human and everyone has their own struggles. Just know that things will get better, as they always do.

In 2003 after I relocated to London and joined Net-a-Porter, I decided to take a year-long sabbatical. After years of travel and long hours it was the right thing for me to do for myself. When you feel like you are reaching burn out, this is always the right time to take an honest look at your work-life balance. In truth, only you know when you need time

KNOWING WHEN TO MOVE ON

Sometimes when you're busy working towards a goal you forget to stop and appreciate the journey. If you suffer from arrival fallacy make sure you stop and assess what it is that you expected. Is the role what you expected or are you already looking for what’s next? Reflection is important as it gives you the opportunity to go out and find what you’re looking for. But remember, it’s all part of a journey and sometimes things need time.

On the other hand, don’t stick around to wait for something to happen. For me it’s always been important to not feel static. When you are no longer getting what you need out of the job and you know you are not giving your best, it’s probably time to move on, because that means the company aren’t getting the best out of you either.

If you have a good relationship with your boss, there is no harm in being open. It could also give them a chance to re-asses your position. I think if you are clear that you aren’t getting what you need and want from a position or not seeing any upward mobility then there is a case to be transparent about looking around to move on.

DO IT YOUR WAY

All my idols are women; all are pioneering. They have done things their own way and not always adhered to the constructs of what it means to be a CEO or senior leader. Remember to follow your own path and not to dwell on what others are doing around you. Think creatively and always be open to change. You can have very clear goals; flexibility in how you get there is key.

images | shutterstock