My Career Choice: Sara Pierce – Split
Native Washingtonian Sara Pierce loves her city and now she’s changing the way people get around our nation’s capital. She is head of Marketing & Communication for Split, a D.C.-based tech start up that provides on-demand shared rides. Powered by a flexible, real-time routing technology, Split combines rides headed in the same direction, thus putting more people in fewer vehicles. The result? More affordable fares, reduced traffic, and safer streets.
Sara is always exploring ways to bring people together. She is passionate about helping Split build creative partnerships with the community to encouraging people not only to ride local, but also eat, drink and play local. And she’s come up with creative ways to promote Split’s services. If you are ever walking around D.C. and see a life-sized banana roaming the streets, chances are it’s Sara or one of her team members at Split. For more information go to the website for Split.
Can you point to one event that triggered your interest in your career?
At the core of my career is a commitment to building and connecting communities. I started out at the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership, where I helped small businesses grow, and collaborated across private and public sectors to help build vibrant, sustainable neighborhoods. At Split, I’ve had the opportunity to approach this work from a new perspective; developing a service and technology that changes the way people move around cities and connect with one another. What event triggered this interest? Hard to say. If I take a deep look back, I can tell you that playing the Sims and SimCity for hours on end as a kid is probably no coincidence!
What about this career choice did you find most appealing?
It’s all about people and places. I like helping people, empowering them, facilitating connections, and making the world a smaller place. I also like making places and spaces exciting, accessible and sustainable. So, the more I can do to help people and make places better, the happier I will be.
What steps did you take to begin your education or training?
In many ways I stumbled upon my career by luck – although I do believe it was meant to be. I studied Sociology and French in college. Then, I landed a research internship at Arlington Economic Development – this kicked things off for me. I’ve definitely applied the communication and research skills that I gained in school, as well as my commitment to do social good, but really my career has been full of on-the-job training – with lots of trial and error, and an open mind!
Along the way, were people encouraging or discouraging?
So encouraging. I’m fortunate to have some really awesome people in my life. Joining a startup was a big move, and Split is a huge part of my life. My friends and family have rallied around me and Split the whole way. And, well, it helps that Split has become a part of their lives, too, since most of them are avid riders.
Did you ever doubt your decision and attempt a career change?
My career so far has been exciting and fulfilling; I haven’t really had any doubts. I hope to continue making a positive impact on the people and places around me.
When did your career reach a tipping point?
My career reached a tipping point the day that I joined Split. There is nothing more thrilling (and scary) then building something from scratch, without a whole lot of rules or parameters. I’ve learned to trust my instincts, be okay with making lots of mistakes, and embrace the ups and downs along the way.
Can you describe a challenge you had to overcome?
The toughest part about a startup is balancing your time and energy. The to-do list never ever ends, so you have to learn to create boundaries for yourself. Let me tell you, I still have not uncovered the secret sauce for this, but for now I focus on being present and prioritizing. Building an awesome, super capable team has also been crucial; I have some incredible colleagues at Split that I can always depend on.
What single skill has proven to be most useful?
Communication! In a collaborative environment where things are moving at a crazy fast pace, it’s so important that everyone is aligned and on the same page. I never underestimate the importance of keeping clear, open lines of communication.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’m proud of Split everyday. Seeing the cars on the road, hearing our riders share how much they love the service, and talking with our happy drivers – it’s all so fulfilling. I’m proud of the service, technology, brand, and team that we have built, and I can’t wait to see where we go next.
Any advice for others entering your profession?
Listen and observe all the time, speak up and share your ideas, meet as many people as you can, and don’t ever take yourself too seriously.
Top Photo by Jason Dixon Photography