As we continue to celebrate International Women’s Day (March 8) all month long, we are proud to recognize women’s achievements and #BreakTheBias – starting right here with our own women leaders at Longbridge Financial.
For this latest installment of our “Ladies Who Lead” series, we caught up with Erica McNab to talk about role models, women’s empowerment, and the importance of perseverance.
Erica is Team Lead for Longbridge Financial’s Retail Sales Channel in the Charlotte, NC branch. With over 15 years of experience in both the financial services and insurance industries, Erica has specialized in consulting, relationship management, and lending. In overseeing and working alongside our Charlotte call center team, Erica’s dynamic leadership style and industry knowledge make her an invaluable asset to her colleagues and customers alike.
Q: What does International Women’s Day represent to you?
A: To me, International Women’ Day is a day for us to celebrate and reflect on the greatness that we as women, embody as well as the undeniable impact that we’ve made in this world since the beginning of time.
Q: Do you think there are any international women’s stories that need to be heard or supported more?
A: I’d say that EVERY story is a notable story! Every woman has a story and a unique journey, and they each face their own set of challenges and victories along the way. Persevering, in even the most seemingly mundane existence, is still a feat that could inspire others to keep going.
Q: What are some ways you could contribute your ideas, wisdom, or expertise to empower other women?
A: I think just being open and being willing to share is key here – and this Q&A blog is a great outlet to start with! Throughout the workdays, I often try to impart wisdom to my team, whether it be work-related or in regards to life in general. With an openness to listen, it’s very possible to glean at least one small piece of wisdom from any point-of-view (POV) you encounter – even if it’s “you can’t listen to everyone’s POV” ?. Most importantly, the wisdom I am able to share with my daughter is dearest to my heart. I want her and all women to feel uninhibited despite the confines they may feel forced into based on history or the expectations of others.
Q: How does Longbridge set a culture of inclusivity and equality?
A: I think the fact that we have a leadership team comprised of so many women really speaks volumes and says it all. At Longbridge, we maintain a culture where anyone can thrive and succeed if they work hard. And for that, I am especially proud. Thank you, Longbridge!
Q: Who do you consider your female role model?
A: My mother! She has always selflessly poured into others, not to be rewarded or acknowledged, but just because service is at the heart of her character. She has the meekest spirit I’ve ever encountered, and I am so grateful to be her daughter.
Q: What is one piece of advice that you could offer to women trying to balance home and work?
A: The best advice I could give is to tackle one day at a time and one task at a time. Don’t overwhelm yourself with the outlook of all that you have to do. It can easily become a lot to bear and make you want to walk away from everything some days. Instead, make a plan for yourself, starting with what is in front of you first. As you finish a task, then you can move on to the next one. Also, be sure to give yourself grace. You can’t be everywhere and everything all the time. So don’t. And be okay with that. ?
Q: Do you have any advice for women who may be struggling in a male-dominated industry?
A: Simply stated – don’t get so wrapped up in proving yourself. Showing up, working hard, and being the best version of yourself will be proof enough.
Q: What are some ways women can find mentors?
A: Mentors are out there. All you have to do is open your mouth and ask! Ask not, want not. There are more women than you’d expect who would love to guide and empower other women. They may be at work, in your family, or even within the networks of your loved ones. The best place to start is with women you know who are thriving within the sector of life in which you are interested in growing, such as parenting, business, or spirituality.
Q: What do you attribute to your success so far in your career?
A: I attribute my perseverance and trust in God to my success. I strive to start each day with an open-mind, and opportunity to be even greater than I was yesterday. It’s also important to never grow weary in well-doing. While it may seem like the one with integrity and ethics finishes last sometimes, it will always work out for the greater good if you hold tightly to your integrity and values.
Q: Do you feel that you’ve achieved everything you wanted to?
A: No, not even close! I am gratefully, happy, and at peace with where I am in this moment. But I know there is more to come…
Q: What advice could you give your 20-year-old self?
A: I would tell my 20-year-old self, that things will get better. Stay the course and focus on growing every day. You will always have enough and be enough for everything you desire to accomplish. And never stop learning!
Thank you, Erica, for your leadership and sharing your insight!
About International Women’s Day
Celebrated annually on March 8, International Women’s Day (IWD) dates back to 1911 around the mission to advance women’s equality. In recognizing the economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, the day has grown to encompass groups around the world in a mission to forge a gender-equal world.
Learn more about International Women’s Day and ways that you can #BreakTheBias at internationalwomensday.com.
