At a recent Junior League of DeKalb County, Inc. (JLD) virtual meeting, Georgia Power Area Manager Toni Hannah shared with members her tips and experiences on successfully pivoting in your career. The presentation was part of JLD’s “Training Thursday” series.

During her session, Hannah shared about her journey to Georgia Power and Southern Company mid-career and how she has grown since arriving in 2001. Before becoming an area manager, she served in roles in human resources and talent management.

“Pivoting doesn’t always mean a promotion,” said Hannah. “Sometimes you have to make lateral moves to get where you want to be long-term.”

She also shared with JLD members that in addition to her typical “day job,” she also took on special projects and developmental assignments that were stretch opportunities and helped her with growth, exposure and relationship building. Further, Hannah shared the importance of “transferrable skills” that can be used across departments and industries, as well as the importance of having mentors.

“Mentors can advocate for you and also help you identify potential blind spots and close skill gaps,” she said. “They can also provide you with feedback that you need to hear. Be prepared that it may not always be great but see it as the gift that it is!”

“We are so thankful for Toni’s wisdom and for accepting her calling to empower, inspire and uplift women in her community,” said Gabrielle Rogers, the Membership Development Committee chair for JLD.

Hannah is currently the Area Manager for DeKalb and Rockdale counties at Georgia Power, responsible for the company’s operations, sales, customer service, economic and community development and external affairs activities for more than 200,000 customers.

The Junior League of DeKalb County, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing their potential, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers for more than 80 years.