I have never thought of myself in the context of a woman or a minority in the workplace, and I believe that translates into making it an even playing field. I would tell anyone that it is essential that you work seamlessly across the organization or business, at every level. By doing so, you cannot help but get noticed.
I have also made a conscious decision to take really measurable jobs, so that it is clear that I have made a difference in an organization. Some people say “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” While I happen to agree with that from a management perspective, the truth is that from a career perspective it is difficult to succeed no matter who you are if you cannot point to where you were in the past, what you are doing in the present, and where you are going in the future.
Some of the greatest lessons I have learned have come at the time of adversity; I feel that you always come out stronger on the other side once you have faced it. While a lot of people try to avoid it, I will welcome it and face the challenge at hand.
In saying all of that, I am smart enough to know that you do not have to be the smartest on the team. I have always felt that smart leaders surround themselves with great people that are aligned around them to deliver. I love a great team, and that is the secret to success.
