Karen Greenberg is a relationship manager for Hartford Funds. She is responsible for promoting the firms’ products to institutional, bank trust, and retirement clients on a national basis.

Here is what Karen had to say when asked about relationship building and remote work:

GenHERation^®: How can you learn about a company’s culture to determine if it would be a good fit for you?

Karen Greenberg: First, you need to understand the type of culture you want. Do you want to work for a company that’s innovative, collaborative, structured, purpose-driven, competitive? Once you know what you are looking for, then during the interview process, ask about culture and see how they respond. Make sure to get examples. Ask for a tour of the facility so you can see how employees are working and engaging. Use social media to see what the company posts and comments on. Ask your network if they have any insights into the company. 

GenHERation^®: What are three steps you can take to build rapport with your colleagues when you work from home?

Greenberg: A great way to build rapport with colleagues from home is with virtual coffee dates. Schedule a 30-minute Zoom. Ask questions to get to know the person. Share stories. Ask for advice on a work project. Offer to help with their work. As a follow up, send a podcast or article on a topic you discussed. Remember to schedule another coffee date [to keep that momentum going].

GenHERation^®: When working from home, what strategies do you rely on to stay energized and productive?

Greenberg: I’m a planner, whether I work from home or in the office. I live by my calendar. It’s not just meetings, but time is blocked off for to-do lists, exercise, and my kids’ activities. I also make sure I take breaks—usually a brisk walk. Your mind needs to rest, so it can be more productive and thoughtful. Further, I call my colleagues to check in. Sometimes you need a good pep talk.

GenHERation^®: What best practices should you follow when asking for a recommendation letter or a reference letter?

Greenberg: There are a couple things to consider: You need to ask someone who knows you or whom you have spent time with, so they can speak to your strengths. Think of a few people in case someone doesn’t have the time to respond. Give the reference plenty of time to write the letter. Be clear with instructions on how to submit the letter. Provide as much detail as possible about the school/position you need the letter for, and include your resume, highlighting key accomplishments that relate to the specific school/position you are applying for. Always send a thank you note.

GenHERation^®: How have you stayed connected with individuals you have met throughout your career journey?

Greenberg: The easiest way is with LinkedIn. As soon as you meet someone, connect on the site. I’m in the relationship management business, and it is such a small world. You see connections you didn’t know existed, and you never know if you will work with or for another colleague again. If you find yourself looking for a new job, the connections provide a network for opportunities. Another way to stay connected is to join industry organizations. For example, I belong to AIMSE, the Association of Investment Management Sales Executives. They host regional and national events. It’s a great way to stay in touch with colleagues and meet new ones.   

GenHERation^®: What advice would you give to your younger self?

Greenberg: I would tell my younger self a few things. One, take more risks. You need to get out of your comfort zone—it’s the best way to learn, grow, and challenge yourself. Two, ask for help. You may think you can do everything, but so many people are willing, and want, to help. Just ask—it gives you freedom. Three, ask questions. So many times, I took information as is, instead of probing the why. You need to question the default—it will connect you better to the purpose. 

Karen Greenberg is a relationship manager for Hartford Funds. She is responsible for promoting the firms’ products to institutional, bank trust, and retirement clients on a national basis. Karen joined the organization in 2016. Prior to joining the company, she held relationship manager roles with other asset management firms; namely Janus Henderson, Turner Investments, Morgan Stanley, and Northern Trust. Before that, she conducted manager research at consulting firm Evaluation Associates (now Mercer). She began her career in 1989 as a pension analyst for Lockheed Martin. Karen is a registered representative of Hartford Funds Distributors and is FINRA Series 7, 3, and 63 registered. Karen holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designations, and the CFA Certification in ESG Investing. Originally from Potomac, Maryland, Karen attended George Washington University where she received her MBA, and the University of Delaware where she received a bachelor’s degree in finance. She currently lives in Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, with her husband and their children.