Mallory T. Tuttle
27, Program Manager, Old Dominion University Strome Entrepreneurial Center
How do you see your generation (millennials)? How do you think older generations define millennials?
I see my generation as innovative, passionate and determined to make a difference in the world. The millennials I know fit this description spot on and make strides each day to make this world a better place. Baby boomers may describe us as fast, direct and often consumed by technology, but each of these accounts has merit and shouldn't be taken negatively. Millennials are provided a unique position in today’s business world and should embrace their attributes.
In what ways does having younger employees add to a company's success?
Younger employees bring a new dynamic to work environments. They provide innovative and fresh ideas and bring about change. Millennials are looking for a sense of purpose in their work—desiring flexibility but in turn offering efficiency and accountability. Partnerships between younger and more mature employees set up opportunities for reverse mentoring, where both employees can learn from each other by melding technology advancements with years of experience and knowledge.
What have been a few keys to your success so far?
Based on my experience I would divide the credit of my success into three action items: 1. Surround yourself with people who support you and build you up. 2. Don’t let opportunities pass you by. 3. Get involved in your community, making time to give back.
Is there anything that you would change about your generation as a whole? If so, what?
Two words: phone etiquette. I will come right out and say it: I struggle with mastering this balance, and this is an area most millennials need to work on. Perhaps crafting a course, Phone Manners for Millennials 101, may be one of my future endeavors!
What do you look for in a job/company?
It is uber important that a company or organization’s mission and values are ones that I believe in and can stand behind. A company culture that appreciates and understands the importance of balance and exudes positive energy ranks high on my list. Also, opportunities for growth and development are essential.
What kinds of digital platforms do you feel you have benefited from in your career?
Professionally speaking, LinkedIn is my go-to social networking site. I enjoy staying up-to-date on what’s going on with my professional connections. I also enjoy using Facebook and Instagram to connect my friends and family with organizations and businesses that would be of interest and value to them.
What do you feel are some of the biggest perks of living in Coastal Virginia? What changes do you think the region should implement to continue to be a draw for millennials?
Coastal Virginia is first and foremost home for me. I am originally from Newsoms (a small town in Southampton County) but now call Portsmouth home. I appreciate all that this area has to offer. I’ve spent days on the sandy beaches, picked produce fresh from the field, strolled city streets and sampled the local cuisine. I love Coastal Virginia, and I am so proud to call it home. As controversial as it is, I believe public transit advancements are necessary to continue to attract millennials. Coastal Virginia is an amazing destination to live, work and play, but travel to and from each of these destinations can use improvement. We must get better connected in the geographical sense.
Tell us about some of your favorite ways to do worthwhile networking.
As a member of tHRive, the Hampton Roads Chamber’s young professionals group, I have come to really appreciate and understand the importance of networking. I have cultivated a variety of relationships through this organization that have enhanced my business resources, opened career opportunities and broadened by friend base.
How are you contributing to life/community outside of the workplace?
I currently serve as the chair of events for tHRive, and I am an active member in the Portsmouth Service League. tHRive is a great organization full of energy and highly involved millennials who enjoy attending educational and social events to learn more about the region and each other. The Portsmouth Service League is a strong network of women who have a passion for the City of Portsmouth and volunteer to make a difference in Coastal Virginia.
What advice would you offer to other millennials or recent graduates about getting their careers to take off?
Get involved, don’t be afraid to try something new (especially if it doesn’t relate to your degree), and be mindful that when things don’t go the way you hoped or planned, it’s OK to chalk it up as a learning experience and move on.
From her nomination:
“Once in awhile you meet someone who truly cares about the community that they live in and seeks to make an impact. Mallory is that person.”
—Lauren Bland, co-board member of tHRive/Millennial on the Move 2016
“Mallory is a dedicated, committed and reliable colleague. Her work ethic and uplifting morale has contributed to the thrive program in ways far beyond the events her committee plans. She carries herself with grace and confidence, and her work ethic demonstrates that she is only at the beginning of a very successful career.”
—Julia Rust, co-board member of tHRive/Millennial on the Move 2016
