5 Questions with an Expert: Karla Alvarado on Hispanic Heritage in the Workplace
Karla Alvarado, Human Resources Generalist at Clark Nexsen, shares how her Hispanic background has influenced her approach to HR and how these values are reflected in her professional practices.
1. Tell us about your path into Human Resources (HR) and what drew you to stay in the field.
My path to HR wasn’t a linear one. I originally started my career in the hospitality and food service industries, which strengthened my ability to connect with people and lead teams. When I moved to Hampton Roads, I sought a more long-term opportunity, and I eventually interviewed for a role at a small government contracting company. That job opened doors for me. From there, I held several administrative roles and became involved with proposal writing. A key aspect of proposal writing was finding candidates for these bids. I was a natural fit for this task, and they saw potential for me to grow in that direction. Eventually, I shifted entirely into HR and recruiting, and I am exactly where I am meant to be now.
What really drew me to stay in the field is the impact I can have on people’s professional and personal experiences. I originally dreamed of becoming a lawyer to advocate for others, and I’ve come to realize that HR allows me to support and advocate for people in meaningful ways that I never imagined possible before.
2. How have the values from your Hispanic heritage shaped your approach to work and leadership?
I carry many values from my Hispanic background, but integrity, resilience, and perseverance are the first that come to mind. Growing up, we didn’t always have the same resources that others had, so I often had to find alternative routes to reach my goals. In times of adversity, my family would always remind me, “You can do it,” and this has always motivated me to keep going. Coming from a hardworking family, their support and pride in seeing me take a different professional path means everything.
I strive to lead with humility and kindness, and I seek opportunities to bring these values to the teams I join. My background has helped me see my role as more than just building departments; I am shaping communities within the workplace. Fostering a sense of family, togetherness, and a strong support system are all meaningful ways that I draw from my heritage and influence my work environment.
3. What does building an inclusive workplace mean to you? How has Clark Nexsen supported that vision, and how has it been reflected in your experience at the firm?
An inclusive workplace champions authenticity. It’s essential to create a space where people can be their whole, authentic selves. Building that kind of inclusion and belonging starts with listening. Leadership must remain open-minded and genuinely value employee input and feedback. From day one, Clark Nexsen has felt like home. Everyone has been so welcoming and supportive, which made it easy for me to settle into my role. The firm’s investments in employee professional development and community initiatives have also shaped its welcoming culture. The company has truly supported me beyond the job.
Since joining Clark Nexsen last year, I’ve received invaluable mentorship from leaders within the firm and support in gaining my Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification. They’ve also sponsored the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Coastal Virginia, a coalition that connects small local Hispanic and Latino businesses with resources and networking opportunities to help them grow and succeed. As a part of the chamber, this sponsorship means a lot to me. I’ll never forget seeing our name as a sponsor this year at La Fiesta Festival, an annual celebration of Latino and Hispanic culture presented by the Hispanic Chamber. It was truly a proud moment for me that demonstrated the genuine commitment that Clark Nexsen has to the communities its employees are involved in.
Clark Nexsen supported the Hispanic Chamber of Coastal Virginia’s annual La Fiesta Festival, an event that pays tribute to Hispanic and Latino culture in Hampton Roads.
4. What has brought you satisfaction in your professional journey so far? Have you found meaningful intersections between your career and your heritage?
Watching new recruits settle into their roles here at Clark Nexsen brings me daily satisfaction. I still remember my first hire, and I always make sure to say hello to him when I pass him in the office or see him in the kitchen. I watch them become a part of our company and truly integrate into their teams. As their first impression of our firm, I always remind them that I’m not just a recruiter. I’m here to guide and advocate for them as an HR professional. Should they need anything, even something as simple as office supplies, I let them know my inbox is always open.
It’s been incredibly meaningful to take my skill set beyond the office. Through my involvement with the Hispanic Chamber, I’ve been able to use my recruiting expertise to help young professionals in my community strengthen their resumes and gain an understanding of what recruiters look for. Being able to share that unique perspective and guidance with others has been incredibly rewarding.
5. What advice would you give to someone looking to find their voice in the workplace?
Finding your voice is a process that begins with small steps, such as speaking up in a meeting, sharing an idea, or simply asking a question. These little actions build confidence over time and strengthen your voice. Your perspective is valuable and needed, so don’t be afraid to share your story, as you bring something to the table that no one else can.
Stay inquisitive, as knowledge is our greatest strength. The more you learn, the more empowered you are to speak with confidence and stand your ground. Keep growing, keep asking questions, and lean on your mentors and networks. Most of all, know that your voice matters. Sometimes, the courage you show in speaking up can be the exact inspiration another person needs to find their own voice.
