096: How to Move Forward in Your Career Without Feeling Ready with Mandy Hunt

Thank you to BCH for sponsoring this episode. Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Mandy Hunt about what it really takes to move forward in your career when you don’t feel ready. Mandy shares her journey through the insurance industry, reflecting on the moments where she chose to step outside of her comfort zone, even when confidence had not yet caught up. Her story is a reminder that progression is rarely about having everything figured out, and more often about being willing to take the next step anyway. Together, they explore the tension many women experience in corporate environments. The desire to grow, paired with the hesitation to put themselves forward before they feel fully prepared. Mandy shares how some of her biggest opportunities came not from certainty, but from saying yes and figuring things out along the way. Sandra and Mandy also discuss the reality of confidence at senior levels, challenging the idea that confidence comes first. Instead, they reframe it as something that is built through action, experience, and exposure. This is a conversation about courage, self-trust, and redefining what “ready” really means in your career. Key Takeaways You do not need to feel ready to take the next step in your career. Confidence is often built after action, not before it. Growth happens outside of your comfort zone, even when it feels uncomfortable. Saying yes to opportunities can open doors you did not expect. Waiting for perfect timing can delay progress unnecessarily. Career progression is shaped by action, not just preparation. Backing yourself is a skill that develops over time. About the Guest Connect with Mandy Hunt on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all things 100 Women in Insurance. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective — a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and more.