December Mentor Spotlight featuring Jocelyn Durant
Background and Introduction
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your current role?
My Name is Jocelyn Durant, I live in Houston, TX, previously a midwesterner. I am married with 2 bonus sons and two fur babies. I am currently the VP of Marketing at Lexitas. In my current role I am strategically planning our field marketing efforts to align with corporate goals, assisting with go to market strategy and execution for new products and services, and driving our brand and public relations strategy within our industry.
What inspired you to pursue this career?
I have always been intrigued with the law, I think it started with watching LA Law in the 80’s with my Mom. There was a moment where I thought I wanted to be a lawyer. I always knew I wanted to pursue a career that allowed me to flex my creativity and also my passion for writing, marketing was the best fit! I have thrived learning more about businesses as a whole and leveraging that business acumen in my strategic planning. I love how marketing is evolving with digital and Ai.
Career Journey
Have you faced any significant challenges or obstacles in your career? How did you overcome them?
I have always been very goal oriented, even as a child. As I have grown I have made sure to set annual goals for myself, both personally and professionally. I know there have been several times throughout my career where someone questioned my experience, my decisions, didn’t listen to what I had to say or tried to make me feel inferior. I overcame those hurdles by investing in good mentors who taught me how to listen, how to advocate for myself and one of the biggest lessons I have carried with me, say your piece and then stop talking. People are uncomfortable with silence and expect us to fill it. And never stop learning. Educating yourself and learning new things, gives you a diverse set of perspectives.
Daily Life and Skills
What does a typical day look like for you in your current role?
I have an amazing job that allows for a good work life balance. I start 3 weekdays a week with pilates, I am a firm believer in moving your body for mental and physical wellness. I like to read the news and a marketing blog in the morning and review my calendar for the day to prepare. I have found time blocking valuable as I am in a lot of meetings throughout the day. Being able to block periods of time to focus and complete work helps balance the day and get things accomplished. I try to be done with work by 6, sit down and have dinner with my family and walk our dogs, before finishing anything left. I also love to read and try to read at least one leisure book a month.
Advice and Inspiration
What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in your field?
Find a good mentor to help guide you, answer questions and share wisdom. Find your people, to help motivate and lift you up they will be there to help you grow. Believe in yourself and never stop learning. Dive into digital and Ai and don’t be afraid to embrace change. Our world will never stop evolving and as marketers we need to be at the front of change.
Life Outside of Work
How do you manage work and life responsibilities, especially during busy or stressful periods?
I know what my personal/professional priorities are, that took time to figure out though. My family is very important to me and I have a supportive partner. I try to be present for important moments, knowing I won’t always be able to, but also knowing those moments aren’t infinite. I have learned that making myself a priority, by taking time for physical movement and mental wellness makes me a better person. Also learning how to set boundaries is also very important.
Looking Ahead
What are your future career goals or aspirations?
My current career goals include continuing to grow in my business acumen, and promote to CMO within the next 5 years. I also want to remain engaged in NGS either at the board or volunteer level as I want to give back and help the next generation of female leaders grow.
Personal Insights
What personal values or principles guide you in your professional life?
Be authentically you, be genuine, respectful and communicate well. Mistakes will be made, and that’s okay as long as you learn from them. Don’t be shady!
Fun and Light-hearted
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t overtalk, most people are uncomfortable with silence, don’t fill it.
Closing
Where can our readers follow your work or connect with you?
I would love to connect with you on LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/durantjocelyna/