To celebrate International Women's Day, we spoke to Danielle Keiner, Global Account Manager at Unifiedpost Group, to learn more about her professional journey as a woman in a managerial position.
Can you share your journey in the IT sector and how you navigated your path to becoming a manager, particularly in an industry where women are underrepresented?
My first experience in management came shortly after gaining my translation degree from university, when I took on the position of Director of the local Berlitz language school in Geneva. This experience equipped me with the basics of management and leadership geared towards both the business and people sides.
I then changed companies and started in an entry-level administrative position. I was new in the business and had to learn the ropes. Nevertheless, my previously gained expertise, along with a keen desire to grow, enabled me to climb the hierarchy very quickly.
As you can see, I've transitioned from administrative roles to managerial positions in the IT and other sectors. While initially in the administrative department, I pursued opportunities for growth, developing expertise in operations, customer service, and project management.
My consistent hard work, perseverance, and diverse background equipped me with skills to lead effectively, culminating in my current role here at Unifiedpost Group.
As a female leader in a predominantly male-dominated field, what strategies have you employed to overcome challenges and stereotypes, and how do you encourage diversity and inclusion within our company?
Navigating challenges and stereotypes has been a significant aspect of my journey, and required determination, resilience, and proactive professional development. I sought out mentorship opportunities, participated in leadership training programs, and consistently demonstrated my ability to drive results and foster a collaborative work environment.
One strategy I've employed is to lead by example, demonstrating confidence, competence, and professionalism in every aspect of my work. By consistently delivering results and nurturing collaborative relationships, I aim to showcase the value that diversity brings to our organisation.
Building strong networks has been instrumental in my professional growth. I prioritise open dialogue to promote a culture of inclusion and strive to inspire others to embrace diversity. I hope to exemplify that it's possible to be a legitimate and effective woman leader, even in our male-dominated industry, by staying true to myself and leading with integrity and empathy.
In what ways do you believe having diverse perspectives, including those of women, contributes to the success and innovation within the IT industry, and how do you advocate for the advancement of women in leadership roles?
I firmly believe that all diversity, including the perspectives of women, drives success and innovation not only in the IT industry but also in all aspects of life and business. I welcome diverse perspectives and value all contributions. While I may not lead specific initiatives, I remain committed to supporting the professional growth and development of women within our organisation.
I believe in equal access to opportunities for skill-building and career advancement, encouraging women to pursue leadership roles based on their qualifications and aspirations. While systemic changes may require broader organisational support, fostering a culture of accountability for diversity and inclusion initiatives is crucial.
Ultimately, my commitment to diversity and women's advancement is unwavering, and I am dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to leadership positions in the IT sector, and what steps do you think are crucial for organisations to take in order to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in tech?
To women aspiring to leadership positions in the IT sector, I offer the following advice:
- Believe in yourself and your abilities, recognising the value of your unique perspectives, experiences, and talents. Embrace opportunities to showcase your leadership potential.
- Be proactive in advocating for yourself and your career aspirations. Don't hesitate to speak up, take risks, and pursue opportunities that align with your goals and ambitions. Remember, it's essential to assert your individual contributions and achievements, rather than solely focusing on collective accomplishments.
- Seek out mentors and allies who can offer guidance, support, and encouragement throughout your career, and continuously invest in your professional development.
- Stay informed about industry trends, technologies, and best practices, and actively seek opportunities for growth and learning.
For organisations looking to promote a more inclusive environment, several crucial steps are essential.
It's crucial for companies to recognise that diversity and inclusion initiatives not only benefit individual employees but also contribute significantly to organisational success and innovation. Embracing diversity fosters a culture of creativity, collaboration, and resilience, driving improved problem-solving and decision-making processes, and contributing to the bottom line.
Moreover, diverse teams are better equipped to understand and meet the needs of a diverse customer base, leading to enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty. By prioritising diversity and inclusion as core values, organisations can unlock the full potential of their workforce and position themselves as leaders in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
To do this, companies must ensure that diversity initiatives are integrated into all aspects of the business, from hiring and promotion practices to leadership development programs and company culture.
Establish clear and transparent policies and procedures to address bias and discrimination in the workplace. Actively promote women's leadership opportunities by implementing mentorship and sponsorship programs, providing access to leadership development initiatives, and creating pathways for career progression and growth.
Cultivate a supportive and inclusive work environment. Encourage open dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect among team members, and celebrate diversity in all its forms.
Measure progress and hold leadership accountable for diversity and inclusion goals to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
In conclusion, together, we can break down barriers and pave the way for more women to rise to leadership positions in the IT sector.
