Kaylin Cotton is early in her career. Her first two early jobs in retail management led her into a role where she is truly making a difference.
Please tell us what you do today in your career.
As Manager – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), my career is developing, supporting, and building an inclusive and diverse workplace for Lakeshore Learning Materials. On a typical day, I develop programs and initiatives for employees to bring their whole selves to work each day.
I support leadership and employees with trainings, uncomfortable conversations, events and more. Lastly, I help the company navigate sensitive topics, issues, and ultimately incorporate DEI into as many areas of the business as possible.
What were you passionate about when you started your career?
When I started my career, I was passionate about brands and, more so, the marketing side of a business. I also was always passionate about people and the ways in which we communicate with one another.
And where did you start?
I started at Target in 2012 as an Executive Team Leader – Apparel and Accessories. That’s basically just a fancy name for a manager.
What was involved in getting your first job?
PATIENCE! I had just graduated from undergrad and was having a hard time figuring out what I wanted to do next. I came across the Target position and honestly was very intrigued about their passion for leadership rather than management.
What did you do there?
As the executive team leader for apparel and accessories, I ran that “side of the store,” doing things like setting and auditing visual stories, inventory, scheduling for a team of 30, and also being responsible for the entire store during certain shifts. That consisted of guest service, complaints, opening and closing procedures, and so much more.
How did it work out/what did you learn, and where did it take you?
I always say having Target as the starting point of my career at the age of 22 taught me so much about myself. Target really poured into professional development, and ultimately it made me realize one of my strengths was communication. That led me to go back to school for my Master’s in Communication Management at USC.
What was your next job, and did it flow from the first, or was it a fresh start?
My next job was as a store manager at Skechers, and it was a fresh start. I really needed more work/life balance as I was beginning grad school, and Skechers allowed its store managers to make their own schedules – this worked for my benefit while I was in grad school.
And then what happened?
Once I finished grad school, I went into the corporate office at Skechers as an admin assistant for the Global Director of Visual Merchandising.
I didn’t love that role, and after about two years, I went into a role at Shondaland, where I was the branding and business development coordinator.
What was the best thing that happened as you started your career?
Things started to fall into place, and I didn’t know that at the time. Every move I made truly set me up for the next and equipped me with the skills and experiences I needed to do well as I went into new roles.
What was the worst or most disappointing, or most challenging?
The worst thing that happened is being in an environment with no one that looks like you. Sometimes feeling like a “token hire” especially as I went into DEI roles but ultimately knowing that I can make an impact on an organization for the better.
What is the most fulfilling part of what you do today?
The impact I am able to make on employees through initiatives, content, events, trainings, or even just a simple piece of advice.
What advice would you give to other young women beginning a career in today’s world?
You don’t need to have it all figured out, and no matter where you go, it doesn’t have to be your period/end. You can always adjust or leave something that isn’t making you happy until you feel good. Also know, no role is perfect, but it’s what you make it.
Where are you headed next/what is your ultimate dream?
My ultimate dream is to continue in the DEI space but really infusing my role with communications. I’ve learned that communications as a part of a DEI strategy informs the other. How you communicate your initiatives, programs, events, news, etc., to your organization matters, and that is my passion. I’d love to continue doing that work in a space that speaks to my interests, morals, and values.
An LA lady, Kaylin calls herself a “brunch connoisseur.” A foodie, she enjoys exercising, traveling and all things fashion and self-care.