We are asking women in the entertainment industry around the world some key questions about their life and career. Here is Eloisa Ferrer based in Miami, USA.
1. In which part of the industry do you work?
Theater Arts Management.
2. Have you drawn professional inspiration from other women in the entertainment industry? How have they inspired you?
Absolutely! Not only from other arts administrators but all those who are shattering the glass ceiling and speaking up for themselves in all fields.
3. What would you tell young women who are just starting out? What would you like them to know?
I would say “Be open to learning and exploring new things. A lot of times we chose to pursue a career based on our parents or college professors opinions of what they think is best. It’s ok to not find your passion until later in life. We’re always transitioning and always learning.”
4. What is the best piece of career advice you have ever received?
Never burn bridges. You never know when you’ll run into someone again later in life.
5. Please share one of your toughest challenges in your career. How did you overcome?
For me, one of the biggest challenges I had to confront was getting equal pay. I worked with an organization for several years where I finally after 4 years, asked for pay raise. I was doing more than what was described in my job description for quite some time. When I finally asked about getting a pay raise, the director responded with “Well what about “insert male co-workers name here”? I immediately was taken aback because first of all he technically reported to me and second of all, I wasn’t sure what my request for a pay raise had to do with my male co-worker. I eventually settled for less than what I asked for. However, after a few weeks, I realized that it wasn’t the money that was making me unhappy, I was just ready to move on. Soon thereafter, without another job in place, I decided to leave. Sure enough something better came along about a week later.
6. What is your favorite musical or play?
Spring Awakening (musical).
7. What is your morning routine?
Wake up. Brush my teeth. Make coffee. Feed my dog and parakeets. Check my horoscope, check email, etc, etc…
8. Drink of Choice?
Diet Coke or a glass of pinot grigio…depends on how my day went.
9. What is a phrase you are known for saying?
“Everything happens for a reason”.
10. If you are not a mother and are willing to share your reasons, we would love to celebrate those choices. Please feel free to share your journey.
Years ago I made a conscious decision to not have children. First of all, I’ve never really had the maternal instinct so many women talk about. I’ve also always been someone is search of the next best thing. Whether it be a promotion at work, a move to a new city…or even just the freedom to travel for work or leisure at the drop of a hat. This is something that i’m not willing to sacrifice. For a lot of people, having children is what makes them feel complete or fulfilled. For me, its my career and my relationships with my friends and family.
BONUS QUESTION
11. What advice would you give to other women in the industry?
Never be afraid to ask for what you feel you truly deserve.
Other Women in the Entertainment Industry:
Women in the Entertainment Industry: Rex Rees
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