Reflections on a Diverse Career in Communications Law and Policy

I’ve been asked to speak tonight about my career as a public interest communications lawyer and advocate, a grantmaker, and a public servant. When someone asks you to reflect on your career and perhaps offer some wisdom, it can only mean one thing – you’re old! Seriously, though, I’ve been extraordinarily lucky to have had exciting and diverse experiences in civil society, philanthropy, government, and yes, even in the private sector.  But like cooking a great meal, building a successful career requires a mix of a lot of different ingredients. Mine include passion, willingness to listen, humility, flexibility, patience, great mentors, mentees, work colleagues, family and friends, and just plain luck. My story starts with a lot of luck and a lot of great mentorship. There is one ingredient that is part of nearly every successful career, including mine, but that people rarely talk about. I’m referring to setbacks, disappointments, and falling short of one’s goals. Whoever said whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger is right. I’m not blowing smoke when I say that setbacks are a key to success—you learn from them, pick yourself up, and move on to greater things.

[Gigi Sohn is a Benton Senior Fellow and Public Advocate.]