Assembling The Right Crew To Claim Your Seat At The Table

At Women of the Channel East in New York City, Kate Woolley, general manager, ecosystem at IBM, delivered an inspiring keynote on the power of self-advocacy and empowerment for women in the professional world. Sharing her personal journey, Woolley recounted a pivotal moment early in her career when she boldly asserted her place at a client's board meeting by creating space at the table for herself. This act of courage not only shifted the meeting dynamics but also served as a turning point for her, underscoring the significance of confidently seizing opportunities. She introduced the concept of building a "pit crew"—a supportive network of mentors and advisors who challenge and uplift you, aiding in decision-making and fostering personal growth.

Woolley also highlighted the critical distinction between mentoring and sponsorship, emphasizing the need for more women to have sponsors who actively advocate for them in their absence. She encouraged attendees to be proactive sponsors in each other’s careers, creating a culture of advocacy and empowerment. Through her personal experiences, Woolley demonstrated how having sponsors at IBM empowered her to establish her leadership style and navigate challenges.

Her address resonated deeply with the audience, urging them to be deliberate about building supportive networks, asserting their presence and continually reaching for new opportunities, thus fostering an environment of inclusion and empowerment in the professional sphere.

You can find more great stories from our Women of the Channel East event here at our newsroom.