Career Advice from Lou Anderton: Top Learnings from Her Inspiring Journey
In the latest episode of the Love Your Career podcast, Lawrence sits down with Lou Anderton, the People Director for PureGym in the UK, Denmark, and Switzerland. Lou shares her fascinating career journey, transitioning from a solicitor in law to a thriving career in HR. Her story is filled with lessons on leadership, personal growth, and making meaningful career decisions. Here are some of the standout pieces of advice from Lou’s journey that can inspire and guide anyone looking to build a fulfilling career.
1. Embrace Unexpected Opportunities
Lou’s career shift began with a casual conversation in a pub—an unplanned moment that altered her professional path. She transitioned from law into HR, discovering a passion she hadn’t anticipated. Her story reminds us to remain open to unexpected opportunities, as they can lead to incredibly rewarding experiences.
2. Discover Your True Values
Lou’s decision to leave law wasn’t easy, but it came from a deep understanding that the hierarchical and traditional legal world didn’t align with her values. This self-awareness guided her toward a career in HR that resonated more authentically with her personal ethos. Knowing your values can help you make career choices that feel right and fulfilling.
3. The Power of Mentorship
Throughout her career, Lou credits mentors for their guidance and support. Whether offering advice or opening doors to new opportunities, mentors played a crucial role in her success. Lou advises seeking out mentors intentionally, ensuring the relationship is mutually beneficial and focused on clear goals.
4. Build Strong Relationships
When stepping into new roles or organisations, Lou prioritised building relationships. These connections helped her adapt quickly, navigate challenges, and thrive in complex environments. Relationships are the foundation of success in any career, so investing time in genuine connections is invaluable.
5. Align with Organisational Values
A pivotal career move for Lou was joining Boots, where the mission to democratise healthcare deeply resonated with her. Aligning her work with an organisation’s values gave her a strong sense of purpose and motivation. For anyone seeking career satisfaction, finding an employer whose values match your own is essential.
6. Seek Feedback Proactively
Lou views feedback as an indispensable tool for growth. Actively seeking both positive and constructive feedback not only helped her improve but also managed feelings of imposter syndrome. By embracing feedback, you can continuously refine your skills and gain confidence in your abilities.
7. Prioritise Health and Well-being
Lou’s career in the health and fitness sector underscores her belief in the importance of well-being. She highlights that looking after yourself is fundamental to living a balanced and fulfilling life. No career success can compensate for poor health, so prioritise your well-being.
8. Make Thoughtful Career Decisions
Lou’s career moves, such as transitioning from Whitbread to Boots, were informed by both professional and personal considerations. She advises evaluating opportunities with a holistic perspective, ensuring your decisions align with your personal and career goals.
9. Commit to Lifelong Learning
Lou is a champion of continuous learning. From books and seminars to executive coaching, she continually invests in her development. Lifelong learning not only keeps you informed but also prepares you for future challenges and opportunities.
10. Balance Passion with Practicality
While Lou is passionate about her work, she emphasises balancing this with practical considerations like financial stability and personal responsibilities. Striking this balance ensures long-term career satisfaction and stability.
Final Thoughts
Lou Anderton’s career journey is a testament to the power of self-awareness, adaptability, and aligning your career with your values. From embracing unexpected opportunities to seeking mentorship and lifelong learning, Lou’s story offers invaluable advice for building a meaningful and successful career.
If you’re navigating your own career journey, let Lou’s experiences inspire you to reflect on your values, seek growth, and remain open to the opportunities that come your way. After all, sometimes the most unexpected turns can lead to the most rewarding destinations. You can listen to the whole episode here.
