I had the opportunity to meet a few executives local to Atlanta. Our host asked us to make introductions, and I was asked to go first. I smiled, said my name, mentioned that I live in Atlanta, and that I am a high school friend of our host. Then, the gentlemen around the table started introducing themselves. They began with their names and went into their incredible years of work experience, highlighting how they are successful C-level executives and leaders in their fields with remarkable technology accomplishments.
Listening to them, I realized I did a disservice to myself by not elaborating on my 25 years of technology accomplishments as well. I made my career seem insignificant and not valuable, which it most certainly isn’t. Why did the men feel more comfortable highlighting their careers right from the start?
I decided to make a joke, which I often do to break the ice. I said, “Well, I’m not only the host’s friend from high school but I have been in technology for all these years. My ‘superpower’ is getting companies acquired and creating the visibility, strategy, and branding for the companies across the competitive landscape, which I have done successfully for five companies."
I am proud of myself for not only correcting my lack of boldness from the start but also for potentially shifting what could have been a different conversation to one about technology, executives we have in common, and many other engaging topics. I enjoy being the only woman at a table with top executives in their respective fields and I deserve to sit by each of these men with my head held high because of my accomplishments.
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