Get to Know Noodle Technical Support Specialist, Irene Chen
A great leader is also someone who would never ask more from others than of themselves. I gravitate towards this leadership style because I think it’s important for someone who’s at the helm to show they are willing to do more for their team.
Irene Chen, Noodle’s Technical Support Specialist, was born and raised in New York City and attended Baruch College, a part of the CUNY system. She recalls being blessed with amazing educators that supported her throughout her educational journey. These educators helped Irene understand how to not only be a student, but a person who could build an identity, create values and share ideas to make positive contributions in the world. This led her to working in education with Noodle where she supports her team with navigating the unknown and bringing her A-game everyday to ensure their success.
What elements or traits does a great leader exhibit?
A great leader needs to know how to handle fumbles and mistakes— not necessarily only caused by themselves but of their teams. They need to take ownership and responsibility, then take the actionable steps on how to fix it. They don’t need to harp on the situation, but rather learn from it and use it as a teaching moment for all. A great leader is also someone who would never ask more from others than of themselves. I gravitate towards this leadership style because I think it’s important for someone who’s at the helm to show they are willing to do more for their team.
When you think of great leadership, who comes to mind? Why?
Theodore Roosevelt. His unrelenting determination to “fix” himself out of bad health at an early age really showed his character throughout his life. He was unapologetic on what he believed in. He put his troops’ welfare above his own.
How has your personal leadership style evolved?
I used to be more timid in group settings. I always waited until the end of a meeting to ask questions or give comments. I even used to tell myself that my input was probably a waste of time. I used to share with peers I was closest to my opinions and thoughts, which led my more outspoken coworkers to “pass the mic” to me. Since building this confidence, I am more comfortable taking initiative in sharing my opinions and thoughts and am quicker to take charge of projects.
What is it about your background or career experiences that successfully positioned you for your role at Noodle? Describe that role.
My last role prior to Noodle really pushed me to be consistently uncomfortable with the unknown. This has turned out to be a great skill because I’m constantly getting tickets that are completely new to me and being able to stay collected without turning into a mess comes in handy! I just go through my steps and find support where needed.
How do you support the success of your team?
I strive to bring my A-Game everyday because I know that if I’m not at my best then the people depending on me can’t be at their best. This drives me daily because nothing gives me more satisfaction than seeing someone win.
Describe how your career has been enhanced by exposure to diverse people, places or experiences.
Being exposed to diverse people, places, and experiences has allowed me to have a more well rounded understanding of the world we live in. This has allowed me to see all the different sides to a situation or scenario. I constantly play devil’s advocate because I think it’s important to be open minded to different viewpoints. This helps me to be prepared for anything that may come my way.
What are some of the most effective tools in your leadership arsenal?
Empathy and Taking Charge.
Please tell us something about yourself that people would be surprised to learn.
I went through a phase of heroics in my high school years. I think I was trying to prove to my parents that I wanted to join the Armed Forces and I was serious about it. During this time I ran into a burning apartment to save my friend’s dog. I chased after a purse snatcher. I assisted a collapsed person until the EMTs arrived. None of these moments convinced my parents that I could make it in the Armed Forces. As much as I rebelled against them, I still respected their wishes.
