In honor of International Women’s Day, we are highlighting some of the inspiring women of UpGuard, as they reflect on their experience being a leader at UpGuard, share advice to help others aspiring for professional growth and development, as well as honor those who have influenced and inspired their careers.
Can you share what your experience has been like as a leader at UpGuard? How has UpGuard supported and empowered you in your leadership journey?
The leaders at UpGuard always have my back, through the good times and the hard times. Whether a project is in my wheelhouse or not, I have always been encouraged to have a go, see what happens and know the team will coach me through. It’s been an excellent way to find out what I enjoy and more importantly what I don’t! For me, there is nothing better for my career and personal development than working for a company who is willing to give me the opportunity to go bigger.
What strategies have you used to feel empowered and fully own your leadership?
Learning to be comfortable in the uncomfortable. Typically we feel uncomfortable when we are in a stage of growth because we are doing something that is unfamiliar. It could be running a project we haven’t done before or pitching a new idea to the business. I have learned it’s important to step into the unknown, fail and figure it out because that is where real growth lives. This is something I use in my everyday life, as well in my career.
For people aspiring to be in leadership positions, what are some key skills or habits they should consider strengthening that have helped you?
Surrounding myself with people who are ahead of me in my career, who have different perspectives, skills and knowledge, as well as people who will challenge me has been one of the most important ways to actively invest in my growth and development. This group is made up of peers inside work, friends and ex-colleagues outside of work and professional networks. They all serve as amazing sounding boards, guides and coaches. They are all my informal mentors in a way!
