Hey there, it’s Jill!

Today, I’m sharing a personal story about rebuilding confidence while switching careers. No matter how prepared we think we are for the next move, life always finds a way to throw us a curveball.

This is the story of how I found my footing again after multiple rejections — and eventually landed the role I had been working toward.

If you’re navigating something similar, I hope this post gives you the courage to rebuild your confidence and keep moving forward.

Let’s dive in!

When It All Started

I have a STEM background in Financial Modelling — a blend of applied mathematics and statistical modeling layered with knowledge of finance and derivatives.

After graduating from a top university in Canada, I began my career as a Quantitative Rotational Associate. It was a two-year program that rotated through the risk modeling and strategy teams. After that, I moved into a Senior Analyst role in the Risk department.

Two years into that role, and nearly four years as a Senior Analyst overall, I came to a decision point: Should I apply for a Manager position in Analytics?

I had spent months preparing — completing online courses, practicing my Python skills, and strengthening my technical knowledge. I felt confident that with my background and work experience, I could land something soon.

The Difficult Journey Begins

In the spring, I applied for a Manager position within the Risk team — and got rejected.

The feedback? They were looking for someone with strong executive-facing skills and presentation ability — not someone with deep technical experience in coding.

Next, I reached out to a different team for a Data Scientist position. Their response?
I didn’t “fit the box.” They were looking for candidates with an MMA (Master of Management Analytics) degree or a Computer Science background. My degree in Financial Modelling didn’t count — though I doubt the hiring manager fully understood what that actually entailed.

One rejection followed another, my confidence took a real hit.

I felt frustrated and confused. I started benchmarking myself against external labels:

It was early 2022. After two years of working remotely, coffee chats and informal conversations were harder to arrange. I wasn’t sure what to do next — so I turned to my mentor for advice.

She was the one who had originally hired me and managed me during one of my rotations. She said something I’ll never forget:

I Got My Inner Strength Back

Her words meant more than she probably realized.

I decided to try again — and this time, I got the role.

I joined the Data Analytics team as an Individual Contributor Manager. After an organizational shift, I became a people manager, leading a team of talented Analysts and working on a range of initiatives — from deep-dive analytics to large cross-functional projects.

Even now, I still remember how excited I was the day I received the offer. After months of uncertainty, I finally saw light at the end of the tunnel.

I’m deeply grateful to the people who believed in me — those who saw my potential, trusted me with challenges, and gave me space to grow.

That role became a turning point in my career — and the beginning of tremendous growth, both professionally and personally.

🌱 What I Learned From This Experience

Looking back, this experience taught me two important lessons:

1. Trust yourself — and stay prepared.

If you're not getting the role you want, it doesn’t necessarily mean you're not good enough. It might just mean that the fit isn’t right.

Instead of spiraling into self-doubt, use that time to gather information and continue preparing for the right opportunity.

2. Have a growth mindset — and trust the process.

Listen to the feedback others give you, even if it’s hard.

Different perspectives can help you grow, but don’t let those perspectives define your worth. You are always capable of growing, learning, and evolving your skillset.

Keep showing up. The right opportunity will come.

Final Thoughts

Confidence isn’t something we’re given — it’s something we build and rebuild.
It gets tested and shaken. But with the right people around you, a plan, and a belief in your ability to adapt — it always finds a way back.

If you’re in a tough season right now, please know:
You are not alone. You are not behind. And this won’t last forever.

I’m here to cheer you on!

— Jill

Founder of Anchor Growth Newsletter

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