In today's episode of Elevate Your Career, Nicole is joined by Nick Szymanski, exploring his remarkable journey from an uncertain college graduate to a successful CIO. Nick shares insightful anecdotes about his early career struggles, including a pivotal moment when he was pushed into the workforce by his mother's practical wisdom. His story takes you through the transformative experiences that shaped his work ethic and professional outlook, highlighting the importance of mentorship, resilience, and the courage to step out of one's comfort zone.  Nick and Nicole discuss the nuances of career advancement, emphasizing the significance of networking and seizing every opportunity for growth. He candidly discusses the challenges of balancing ambition with personal well-being, offering advice on prioritizing tasks and recognizing the importance of work-life balance. Nick's reflections on his journey are not only a roadmap for aspiring professionals but also a reminder that success is a multifaceted pursuit, requiring continuous learning, adaptability, and the humility to acknowledge one's limitations. Nicole and Nick also explore the qualities that distinguish exceptional leaders. Nick advocates for curiosity, accountability, and the willingness to embrace challenges as pivotal attributes for anyone aiming to climb the corporate ladder. He stresses the importance of asking questions, learning from every situation, and owning up to one's mistakes as the cornerstones of effective leadership. Nick's story underscores the significance of genuine connections, continuous self-improvement, and the audacity to envision and achieve one's professional aspirations. Join Nicole and Nick for this fascinating and inspiring conversation! Enjoy! What You Will Learn In This Show: How overcoming initial career setbacks can shape a strong work ethic and resilience.The crucial role mentors play in career development, and how mentorship in New York significantly impacted Nick's professional journey.Nick's experiences of shifting from various roles, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and learning from diverse experiences.The importance of balancing professional aspirations with personal life, and the shift from a work-centric lifestyle to finding a healthier balance.How building and leveraging a professional network can open doors to new opportunities and career advancements.The significance of being curious and asking questions, demonstrating how this attitude can lead to greater understanding and career progression.How owning up to mistakes and learning from them is a vital trait for effective leadership.How taking on challenges outside of one’s expertise can be enriching and beneficial.How relationships, like with Nick's wife and family, can profoundly influence one's approach to work and life priorities. And so much more...