Highlights from the Women in Payments Conference
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the Women in Payments conference and what an experience! Over two days, I got to meet, learn from and be inspired by amazing women in this space.
I also had the privilege of moderating the “Different Women, Same Work Ambition” session where I was joined by panelists Jennifer Acosta, Kelly Carpenter and Lauren Holohan to discuss the intricacies of being an ambitious woman in today’s workplace. The panel discussion was one of those “I wish you were there moments” because of the radical vulnerability and openness of everyone who participated. There were many key takeaways including:
- When joining a company, do your due diligence. Explore the company culture and understand the support and resources available to you.
- It’s important for women to seek mentors, coaches, and opportunities outside of our immediate organization.
- As women, we should speak up and confidently ask for what we want. There are many people ready and willing to support us.
- Men are our allies not adversaries. They want to support but sometimes are unsure of how. Bring them into the conversation.
- Your decision to start a family (or not) is your decision. There are so many lived experiences around this often taboo topic and know you are not alone.
- Intersectionality is important to consider when thinking about how other identities may shape a woman’s experience. Let’s lean into this important conversation with openness.
- Do not always take the easy route or settle for what’s comfortable. You are short changing yourself of growth.
- Be that link for other women. Women supporting women is here to stay!
Though being a woman in today’s workplace sometimes has its challenges, overall, it’s such an empowering experience. At the end of the panel session, we took a pledge which I invite you to take as well!
Different Women, Same Work Ambition Pledge:
“I pledge to show up as my authentic self and to be phenomenal in the way I know best.
I pledge to support other women to the best of my abilities because even though we are different, we have the same ambition!”
Thank you to Kristy Duncan of Women in Payments, my fellow JPMorgan colleagues, and everyone who I met during this event. #payments #womeninpayments