Meet Ashley Anderson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Anderson.

Ashley, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have been in the Phoenix area now 14 years by way of my hometown, Rockford, Illinois. I never wanted to stay in my hometown for the rest of my life, I knew I wanted more. More than my hometown could offer me. After I moved to Phoenix in 2006, I started working in a call center and eventually worked my way up into Human Resources, not knowing if this was what I wanted to do, but what I liked to do. Once I started, I loved every minute of it.

When I moved to Phoenix, I already had earned my Associate’s Degree from Rock Valley College back in my hometown. I continued my education at American Intercontinental University getting my Bachelor’s in Business Administration in International Business followed by my Master’s in Business Administration in Management. I chose the emphasis of International Business and Management when it came to my education.

I started my career in Talent Acquisition, working in Telecommunication and Construction. I then moved into my current role as a Senior Human Resource Business Partner for a local non-profit healthcare organization in Phoenix. I also work as a freelance consultant, working with entrepreneurs and small business owners with business strategy and implementation of Human Resource policies and procedures as well as career coaching and strategy, helping individuals with their resumes and cover letters.

I currently sit on the Board of Directors of the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources (NAAAHR) and am a member of the Greater Phoenix Urban League of Young Professionals.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It certainly hasn’t always been a smooth road. I went through a divorce in 2012, that caused me to take a look at life and re-evaluate what I wanted for myself and my daughters. I had some friendships fail, but I gained new ones that are priceless.

I doubted myself, big time. Imposter Syndrome is a real thing. I chose to take time to heal from things that I dealt with in my life and the work I completed played a huge part in my journey. During this process, I chose to have people around me who were able to uplift and empower me in my moments when I felt defeated. Restoring and rebuilding my confidence through therapy was a big part of my journey. I work toward being my best self daily.

Please tell us about your work.
Outside of my 9-5 position during the day, I freelance providing Human Resource services on Fiverr and Upwork, and work with those within my network as needed. The most common service I provide is resume writing and interview preparation. I specialize in Talent Acquisition/Recruiting and also Leadership Development and Training. I love to see others grow and develop their professional skills.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is continuing down the past that has been set for me. Rocking my lane and cheering those beside me who are in their lanes following their paths. I am a huge cheerleader for those around me making strides. Success is my daughters seeing their mom as someone who fought to give them what they needed, someone who made things happen.

Contact Info:

• Email: ashleym.anderson2@gmail.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleymanderson2/

Image Credit:
Headshots: DNA Images, Matthew Echavarria

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