With Pirot at the helm, Pirot Media—which provides advisory services to companies seeking to grow their revenues—has amassed a client base of more than 20 companies including AMC Networks, NBCU, Sony, Verizon and The Weather Group. Among her many 2021 ventures, Pirot saw an opportunity for Spanish-language content and ultimately helped create Spanish and Portuguese versions of FAST channel operator Nosey. Additionally, she spearheaded the launch of MagellanTV Now and the soon to be launched True Crime Now. All in all, Magellan’s revenues have doubled since she joined the team, including $2 million of FAST revenue, the new business line she created. She advises those headed back into the workforce to cultivate and exude confidence: “The hiatus is not the story, and you do not need to explain it or apologize for it.”
Best advice for someone looking to re-enter the workforce after a hiatus?
My best advice for someone looking to re-enter the workforce is to exude confidence and control the narrative. To build that confidence, spend some time getting current on your industry knowledge before pursuing new opportunities. You can do this by attending industry events, reading trades, and maybe even taking some courses. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to your network! In my experience, folks are more than happy to take time out of their day to help a former colleague. When you’re ready, blast the news that you are in the market for a new gig far and wide; post on LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. As far as controlling the narrative, make sure your story focuses on why you are qualified for job X, not why you were out of the work force. To that end, update your resume to be skills based rather than chronological. The hiatus is not the story, and you do not need to explain it or apologize for it. I find too many women leading with that rather than the real story: You, the Rockstar job candidate!
Do you have an example of male allyship that made a difference to you?
I’ve been fortunate to have encountered many male allies in my career, but one stands out. JB Perrette led the digital distribution team at NBCU when I joined in 2005. While I joined as a finance lead, JB gave me the opportunity to move into a BD role quite early during my tenure there. At the time, I wasn’t sure I was qualified for such a role, but JB’s confidence in me is what pushed me to make this move. He believed in me even before I believed in myself. JB always pushed me to do more and made sure I was “in the room where it happens.” This support ignited a now 15-year career in BD, rising to SVP at NBCU and enabling me to start my own company in 2016. I am eternally grateful for JB’s allyship.