Empowering Inclusion – Celebrating Women's History Month 2024
As we approach Women's History Month this March, Atlas is proud to celebrate International Women's Day, led by our Women's Community, an integral part of the Atlas Impact Program. As the Executive Sponsor of the Women's Community, I am thrilled to share my personal journey to the C-level as a woman in the corporate world.
Leadership Lessons: A Story of Adaptability and Resilience
My professional journey has been a tapestry of diverse roles, each contributing to my growth and shaping my approach to leadership. From my beginnings in sales to IT management and eventually leading company level transformation and strategy, each step has been a learning opportunity. The unexpected pivot in my career occurred when personal events led me to reevaluate my priorities as a single mother. This experience underscored the importance of aligning one's professional path with personal values.
Throughout my career, I've embraced the philosophy that mistakes can be our greatest teachers. A lesson learned early on was the importance of transparency and honesty in leadership. One memorable incident, where I attempted to resolve a business impacting issue without informing my boss who was traveling overseas, taught me the significance of being upfront about challenges. This lesson has become a cornerstone of my leadership style – honesty, transparency, and a commitment to resolution.
Challenges Faced by Women Leaders: Balancing Motherhood and Career
One of the most significant challenges for women leaders is undoubtedly the intersection of career and motherhood. The societal biases and assumptions surrounding pregnancy can pose hurdles that impact a woman's career trajectory. Having experienced these challenges personally, I understand the importance of addressing them and creating a workplace where every woman can thrive, regardless of her family choices.
Executives are often perceived as unapproachable figures, distant from the everyday challenges faced by employees. However, I challenge this myth. Executives, myself included, are individuals with families, pets, and relatable experiences. Authentic leadership involves open communication and a genuine connection with the team. It's vital for everyone in the organization to feel heard, valued, and seen.
Insights for Aspiring Executives: Teaching Inclusivity from Childhood
To those aspiring to executive roles, there are a few insights that I can share based on my own journey. Success as an executive requires a unique blend of science – the skills and knowledge acquired throughout one's career – and art – the ability to lead authentically and make decisions with confidence. Recognizing the responsibility that comes with executive roles is crucial, and every decision should be a balance between the two.
Beyond my role at Atlas, I envision a movement that instills inclusivity in young children, teaching them to see each person without bias or judgment. This movement aims to create a positive force of inspiration, fostering a world where diversity is celebrated from an early age. Inclusion isn't just a workplace goal; it's a societal imperative that starts with our youngest minds.
As we celebrate Women's History Month and International Women's Day, let us commit to breaking barriers, fostering inclusivity, and creating a workplace where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive. Atlas remains committed to creating a workplace that champions diversity, empowers women, and inspires future leaders. Join us in this celebration of inclusion and progress, stay tuned for more content from Atlas Story and #WomeninAtlas.