Women in Technology: Advice from 20 Years of Experience
Originally Published: March 25th, 2024
There’s no teacher like real-world experience. We show up every single day, having faith we will get better with time. But we don’t have to wait for time to pass to see results. We can accelerate this journey by learning from the experiences of others.
Daizy I. and Chitra R. share their advice for nurturing a successful career after spending 20 years at Dell Technologies.
Daizy I. | Senior Manager, Product Management – IT | Bangalore, India
I joined Dell fresh out of college back in 2003, and I have had a very fulfilling career journey. I started as a Technical Support Engineer, and today I am a Senior Manager of Product Management IT. This was made possible by the culture of support at Dell. I was able to finish my masters in computer applications in 2007 without taking a break from work. In 2023, I had the privilege of participating in the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore’s Executive Leadership Program to enhance my leadership skills.
I have also been able to make a difference in more than one way. I have been associated with the diversity pillar of Dell Digital. I have organized hackathons with a diversity focus, contributed to the Career Restart program and been a mentor as part of the Resident Intern initiative, all with an aim of making technical careers more accessible and aspirational for girls and women.
Success breeds motivation, and this has certainly been the case for me. I look to the years ahead with more determination than ever before to make a difference to the business and the community.
My advice:
Tip #1: Make learning a lifelong habit
The field of IT is constantly evolving with new technologies and methodologies emerging regularly. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning to stay ahead, whether it's through online courses, certifications, or self-directed study.
Tip #2: Effective communication is crucial
The ability to communicate well is important for many things like building team synergy, client relations, problem solving and more. Spending some time on improving this will bear great results in the long run.
Tip #3: Networking is important
Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities and insights. Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with colleagues and mentors. Building relationships with others in the field can provide valuable support, advice, and career advancement opportunities.
Chitra R. | Director, Sales Operations | Hyderabad, India
As I reflect on my remarkable two decades at Dell, I am filled with immense gratitude. These years have gifted me countless experiences, enduring friendships, and exceptional mentors.
I joined Dell back in 2003. In these 2 decades, I have witnessed waves of innovation in the industry. I learned a lot as I navigated the evolving technology landscape with Dell Technologies. I joined as a Sales Coach for European Sales. Today, I serve as the Director of Global Business Services for India, where I lead a team that supports global product lifecycle operations for Dell consumer products.
I would be remiss not to mention the support I got for my development. I attended multiple in-house certification courses, external conferences, workshops, and panel discussions. Over time, these experiences proved to be transformative. The professional I am today is a result of multiple factors, and these experiences are definitely some of them.
My advice:
Tip #1: Be a student for life
Keep upskilling and reskilling with the rapidly evolving market.
Tip #2: Have a passion & purpose in life
Identify your north star, and dare to dream and accelerate.
Tip #3: Embrace change
Change is inevitable, so be open minded and adaptable.
To learn more about life at Dell, visit Our Stories.
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