In her words (May 2013): My name is Erica Holley, and I'm a new management professor at CWU-Lynnwood. I completed my PhD at the University of Washington in 2012, and I currently teach Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management at Lynnwood, Des Moines, and Ellensburg.
What is something that most people do not know about you?
One rather unusual fact about me is that I also have a passion for creative writing and have published a young adult fiction novel called "Duncan, Son of Sagira." It's a legendary tale about a world of cats filled with ancient magic, purebred guards, and dangerous feral clans.
Tell us about an interesting hobby
I love playing indoor soccer, and I've been a goalkeeper since I was in third grade!
What is something unique that you have discovered in your research?
One of my favorite research projects is on understanding how employees react to interpersonal events where they believe they received either too much or too little credibility for the information they communicated to others (e.g. perceived credibility received for the advice given to a supervisor during decision making) (Holley, Johnson, & Jensen). Specifically, our research has found that having a perceived credibility deficit is associated with decreased job satisfaction and increased turnover intentions and deviant behavior.
Where was the most interesting place you have visited?
I recently took a trip to Iceland, and I was in awe of the dramatic landscape!
Describe your teaching style
I really focus on building connections between the real world and the concepts within the class. In order to do that, I try to draw connections to pop culture, media, politics, and student experiences through fun cases, videos, and exercises.
If you could learn any language, what would it be and why?
I would love to learn Spanish. I think it is a beautiful language, and my grandmother was born in Mexico and could speak it fluently.
What do you think is the key to academic success?
Wow, what a question! I think being driven to learn and grow combined with a desire to never stop pursuing new goals is crucial to success in anything, not just academia.
Provide a useful interview tip
Demonstrate how you "fit" with the organization's goals and values. Companies want employees that have the KSAs necessary to succeed AND they want a personality match with their organizational culture.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Teaching, writing, and mentoring. I hope to have expanded my family by then as well (both furry and human members).
What are a few of your career goals?
I would love to continue publishing in top tier journals and be recognized for excellence in both teaching and research at CWU.
What successful business person do you consider a role model?
I am always impressed by people like Bill Gates that strive to have a positive impact on the world when they could just as easily sit around doing nothing.
What pets do you have?
Duncan & Whiski (two very spoiled shelter cats). I am a huge adoption advocate.
What gives current graduates an ‘edge’ in the current job market?
Find ways to distinguish yourself through job experiences that enhance your education. Your resume needs to pop.
Describe your dream vacation
I love Europe, and I'd love to spend more time there seeing new places that I've never been to.
What are you most proud of accomplishing?
This is a REALLY hard question. I think it is a tie between finishing my PhD and writing my first novel.
What are you currently reading?
Game of Thrones. I just finished and I'm in withdrawal.
Create your own question or comment
Don't feel boxed into a stereotype when it comes to your career. I really struggled with this as an undergraduate because I was passionate about so many different things but nothing fit neatly into one box. Find a way to pursue all your passions. That "divided attention" won't hurt you. It will only make you more versatile, energized, and most importantly, balanced!