In this episode of REAL-ATABLE 2.0, host Teresa Freeman sits down with James Weston, a seasoned Security and Risk Leader who built his career in the federal sector before boldly transitioning into a commercial leadership role.
James shares the story behind his decision to make the move, the preparation it took, and what he’s learned since stepping into the private sector. From growing up in a federal-service family to navigating new expectations in corporate life, his journey is full of practical lessons and powerful reflections on career growth and adaptability.
Key Takeaways
- 💡 “Just get there.” No matter the role, get your foot in the door, prove yourself, and the right opportunity will follow.
- 🙋♀️ Say yes to volunteering — even something as simple as helping with the office holiday party can boost your visibility and network.
- 💬 When it comes to compensation, do your homework and approach the conversation with confidence.
- 🤝 The most valuable soft skills? The ability to communicate clearly, be concise, and know how to connect in person.
- ❓ And never underestimate the power of asking good questions.
Who This Episode Is For
Anyone considering a career pivot, especially those moving from federal to commercial roles, will find this conversation encouraging, insightful, and real-atable.
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I love it when people come together and share opinions, great blog, keep it up.
The next time I read a blog, I hope that it doesnt disappoint me as much as this one. I mean, I know it was my choice to read, but I actually thought youd have something interesting to say. All I hear is a bunch of whining about something that you could fix if you werent too busy looking for attention.