“Selecting a career based on other people's opinions or because it's in vogue is not the best way to go. Disregarding your identity and allowing the pressure of your peers' successes to influence you may lead to bad decisions. Some career paths are not for you. Know who you are.” Abena Frimpong People Manager, Cadana

For our Culture Leaders series this May and to wrap up workers’ month, we spoke to our People Manager at Cadana, Abena Frimpong.

Abena is a Human Resources expert with almost a decade-long experience providing HR solutions. She worked with a multinational telecommunications company and a fast-growing petroleum company where she served as an HR officer with a focus on talent management; before joining the Cadana team to function as People Manager.

Over time, she has had the opportunity to work in multiple industries while curating people-related solutions which she finds truly exciting. For Abena, the second most exciting thing about her role as an HR professional is working with, and learning from dynamic and talented HR professionals across multiple industries.

She gave us some insight on workplace culture, career tips, and the impact of her work here at Cadana, where she works to empower other people managers, and employers with tools for unlocking productivity. Cadana's Oby speaks with Abena in. this month's installation of Culture Leaders.

Oby: How does your work as a professional help work culture?

Abena: I think of this as a balancing of weights; projecting both the interests of workers and employers. It is essential to advise on the impacts of executive decisions/actions on employee morale and engagement, and for these to be in accordance with company values.

Oby: What, in your opinion, are 5 early mistakes to avoid when carving out a career?

Abena: The first would be selecting a career based on other people's opinions or because it's in vogue and that is not the best way to go.

Secondly, disregarding your identity and allowing the pressure of your peers' successes to influence you which may lead to bad decisions. Some career paths are not for you. Know who you are.

Next to that is choosing a career just because it's aligned with what you studied in school and not because you're interested in it. There’s always room to explore if you can. Don’t limit yourself.

Also, only focusing on the money. Money will always be a major factor to consider, no doubt, but there are also other factors to look into. Always look at the bigger picture before making career decisions.

Finally, I would say not researching your career of interest. While all the perks of a career path might draw you to it, it’s also important to do your homework. Do your research to find out what it takes to excel in that line, this way you equip yourself for the decision-making, and subsequently prepare yourself for the journey.”

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