Tandra LeMay
State Government Affairs Director
Verizon
Personal Journey
Can you share a bit about your personal journey and what led you to your current position?
I’m from a very small town where generations of families still live there today. Growing up, I always wanted to work in sports but didn’t know how to secure my dream job. I didn’t come from a sports family, never played sports and wasn’t connected to anyone in the industry. So, I started seeking opportunities to gain experience and build my network. I applied for numerous jobs and received numerous rejection letters. Until one day, when someone decided to give me a chance. Today, that small town girl has traveled the world, met amazing people and acquired a diverse work history. All because I never gave up.
Advice for the Next Generation
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to leadership roles?
My advice to young women aspiring to leadership roles is to say YES. Say YES to that stretch opportunity. Say YES to that assignment on that team you are unfamiliar with. Say YES to chances that take you out of your comfort zone. Saying YES enhances skills, provides exposure and enables recognition; which are all needed for advancement.
Importance of Giving Back
Why do you believe it is important to give back through organizations like the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce?
GHWCC is a solutions driven organization of like minded women AND men who come together to share experiences, challenges, stories and successes in an effort to help each other grow professionally and personally. Having such a strong organization providing a safe space for people to learn is the kind of organization I want to help achieve its objectives. Through my personal experiences and knowledge and those of my Verizon colleagues we hope our journeys provide clarity, insight and answers to those unlocking their greater potential.
Additional Insights
Can you share any books, podcasts, or resources that have been particularly influential in your career?
What has been particularly influential in my career are mentors. My mentors have been very honest about their challenges, regrets, and opinions on things that they would have done differently in order to help guide me in my professional and personal journey.