AFSA is honoring Women’s History Month by highlighting notable female leaders in the consumer credit industry. Lesley Hastings shares her insights on career development and the lessons she has learned throughout her journey.
Reflecting on her career, Hastings emphasizes the importance of strategic work over mere hard work. "The most important lesson I’ve learned in my career is that success isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working strategically," she states. She highlights building strong relationships, adaptability, continuous learning, and taking calculated risks as key factors in her growth.
Mentorship played a crucial role in Hastings' early career, providing guidance on various professional aspects. "I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who provided invaluable insights early on—whether it was about negotiation, financial planning, or work-life balance," she recalls.
When asked what advice she would give to her younger self, Hastings says: "Trust yourself more, take smart risks sooner, and always advocate for your worth. Relationships and networking will open more doors than you think, so invest in them. And remember, financial freedom comes from intentional decisions—not just a bigger paycheck."
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