Allison Fether
Q: Where did you attend college, and what degree did you receive?
A: Bowling Green State University BSBA Dual Majors: Marketing & International Business Minor: Interpersonal Communications
Q: Did you go to your dream college?
A: I don’t think I really had a dream college in mind per se. I wanted to be close enough to drive to see my family if I wanted to, good Greek life, a college town, and a place that felt like home to me. I loved my college experience!
Q: Do you think your college education was necessary for your success in business?
A: Yes
Q: Who or what led you to your current career path?
A: My Dad was a CEO. I learned from him and always had business leadership tendencies so I knew for certain I wanted to get a business degree. As I entered HR, I quickly grew capabilities. I enjoy all aspects of talent leadership.
Q: Was your current career your first choice, or did you switch?
A: I wasn’t really sure what I was going do with my business degree upon graduation. The opportunity to move into HR kind of happened by accident. I originally started out more in sales and marketing, but made a very quick job change when I hated the job I moved to Atlanta for. I found a new job (which happened to be in HR) one month after moving!
Q: Was mentorship significant to your business journey?
A: Less mentorship, more having really good managers and other business leaders I supported as their HR Leader to learn from. I have always looked at any new job role opportunity and asked myself, “What will I learn by working for and/or with this person?”
Q:How do you approach networking and the building of professional relationships?
A: Never hesitate to reach out and ask for help. Use your existing network when you need it for introductions. Relationships matter in every aspect of life.
Q: What is the ratio of males to females in your business?
A: In my current role/company, I am the only woman within a senior executive team of 10. I have a good ratio of both women and men working for me. Overall, the profession of HR tends to have a good male/female ratio in general.
Q: Have you observed or been affected by a wage gap between men and women in your field?
A: I have not.
Q: How have you asserted yourself as a powerful woman in your field?
A: Yes, but “powerful” might not be the best word to describe my leadership and I think can have a negative connotation for some. “Influential and engaging” maybe?
Q: What has been your biggest tool in gaining credibility in the business world?
A: Integrity, intent, capabilities and results.
Q: How does social media, if at all, impact your business?
A: I really can’t think of a business that it doesn’t impact. Specifically in human resources, it is a great tool to attract and find potential candidates, etc.
Q: What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
A: If you don’t wake up every day and have passion for what you do, it’s time to find something new.
Q: Lastly, what would be the number one piece of advice you would give to your high school self?
A: Don’t spend any time worrying or have insecurities about what other people think of you. What matters most is loving yourself, which builds confidence.
