AFSA is highlighting influential women in the consumer credit industry as part of its celebration of Women's History Month. Alicia Dagosta, a prominent figure in the field, shares insights from her career journey.
Dagosta emphasizes the importance of making tough decisions swiftly. "My most important lesson – make the hard decisions faster. Time will not help and will likely only increase the pain," she states. This principle applies to both large projects and team-based decisions. She advises giving a second chance but acting quickly if issues persist.
She also advocates for trusting one's instincts. "Trust your gut," she advises, noting that while research and well-reasoned decisions are crucial, intuition can sometimes guide effectively.
Reflecting on mentorship, Dagosta acknowledges several influential lawyers who encouraged her to assert herself and think beyond legal confines. One mentor taught her to approach challenges with a business mindset rather than solely a legal perspective.
Looking back, Dagosta wishes she had realized sooner how enjoyable law in financial services could be. She regrets staying in roles for stability instead of seeking environments that foster trust and enjoyment. "It goes by in the blink of an eye, so grab every opportunity that comes your way," she advises younger professionals.