My name is Anne Talley. I have been in the beauty and fashion industries for over 20 years, in Marketing and General Management, working on iconic brands like L’Oreal, Maybelline, Revlon and Ralph Lauren. I have a wonderful and supportive family, including my loving and talented husband and children, my parents, brother and sister and their families. I love to have adventures with my family. My latest passion is Circus Arts, especially the Aerial Hoop. I love working with people. That gives me the greatest joy in my job, and I have had the opportunity to work with many great people over my career. I have been truly blessed to be in such an exciting and close-knit industry.

My Dear Anne,

I know you aren’t happy. Every night you come home feeling beaten down. I know how discouraging this is. It’s ok to feel that way. I want you to remember these emotions. I want you to hold on to them in an empowering way. You took this new position just a few months ago, expecting it to be a fast track to your dream job. You were so excited. Becoming a VP in the beauty industry seemed to get a little closer. But, now, you’re being held down now by a controlling, disempowering supervisor. And your dream job seems nowhere in sight.

It may feel a bit hopeless right now, but always keep chasing your goals and dreams. You have supporters and mentors to guide you and help you in this difficult situation. Reach out and ask for help. Ultimately it will be a cherished mentor and former boss who will help you, and who will again make you excited to come to work every day and who will help you reach your dreams.

Of course, you can't always pick your bosses. In your career, you will encounter a few who will be difficult. They will make you stronger. Some won't have much impact on you at all. But also know you will be lucky to have some of the best, smartest, giving and wonderful bosses. These people are gifts and will have such a tremendous impact on you and your career. Empowering you, teaching you, partnering with you and fighting for you. Cherish them and help them be their best. Sustain these relationships over time, even when you change jobs and don't see them regularly. Stay in touch, as you never know when you will have the wonderful opportunity to work together again and even provide support to them.

Role model these great people’s best behaviors, because, my dear, you’ll be in their position one day. That’s why I want you to remember the way you are feeling now. Remember it when you work with your team. Use it to inspire you and to empower everyone you manage. Listen to those who report to you. Listen to your coworkers. Actively support them all. Remember how you were supported and pass this along.

Yes it’s tough right now. Learn from this experience and believe in yourself. Every experience you have, good and bad, will provide its own lessons that will serve you throughout your career and life. This is just one that will show you the importance of relationships. Build relationships, and, most importantly, cherish the great mentors and supporters. Then do everything you can to become one yourself.

-Anne

Anne is one of those rare career women who have a positive, calming aura about them. Since the day I met her at L'Oreal, she's been so kind, genuine and honest with me. I admire her passion for beauty and the way she carries herself as a well-respected executive, always full of joy.