Her career in tech started out by chance. “RIM was THE place to work in our community back in the early 2000s so when I had a chance to join the organization I jumped at it. The BlackBerry was everywhere! It was on Oprah’s favourite things list, all of the celebrities had them…and I was lucky enough to live in the city where all of the magic happened. It was a no-brainer.”
When we asked Lisa if she felt she had to work harder than her male co-workers she said she has been extremely fortunate to work alongside men who both respect and support their women colleagues. “At work, I’ve never felt that my voice wasn’t being heard because I am a woman. That being said, there have been many times where at events/meetings there are very few women “at the table”. Large tech events like CES or MWC are a sea of men – sometimes it can be daunting to hold your own space in those situations. It is also possible that women in technical roles may have very different experiences than I have had. But, we can’t let those things stand in our way. Find a good mentor and a circle of peers.”
She believes men should be an ally to women to help support them! “Refuse to be on panels that only have men. Ensure when you are on a panel that you are asking the women for their opinions and giving equitable speaking time. Invite your women colleagues to meetings where they can add value even if the person conducting the meeting didn’t include them. Ensure your hiring practices include networks outside of your immediate circle.” Lisa also believes pay equity plays a huge role in helping to support young women advance in their careers. She wants companies to ensure women have a voice at the table and that their policies and procedures are diverse-friendly.
When it comes to taking action and succeeding in your career Lisa believes you need to “Hone your craft”. Become the expert at what you do. Once you’ve done that, ask for what you want! “I see too many young people (women and men) who complain that no one has given them a promotion. Working hard and waiting for someone to promote you isn’t a strategy. Own it. What do you want to accomplish? How are you going to get there? Make sure your leadership team knows your ambitions. Take professional development that gets you closer to your goal. Ask for performance feedback. Build your network. If you work in an environment that isn’t supporting your growth, explore other opportunities. Ask for help. Get a mentor. Be a mentor.”
The best professional advice Lisa has ever received is to build her network. “If you take the time to build authentic and mutually beneficial relationships you will have a much higher chance of achieving the goals you set for yourself.”
Are you interested in becoming a leader in tech like Lisa? Do you want to hear more about her experience in the industry?
Join her on March 31st for our Women in Tech webinar. Women across the world will be there to discuss challenges, achievements and answer any questions you may have!
