One of our favorite months every year, Women’s History Month, gives us a chance to pause and consider all the amazing contributions women make throughout the world, especially here, every day at GCommerce. This year, we’ve interviewed the current female leadership team members to get their real-life journeys and advice for other women navigating their own career journeys.

Discover how each of our current female leadership team members arrived in their current roles - from their most pivotal moments to challenges and milestones. We think you’ll walk away feeling inspired and empowered, knowing that everyone’s path is different and that you have the power and capability to forge your own path.

To celebrate Women’s History Month, we want you to hear from some GCommerce leaders.

What are some challenges you believe are unique to women in leadership roles within the digital marketing industry?

One of the biggest challenges and areas of growth for me as a woman is advocating for myself as well as others. A constant battle with imposter syndrome makes it hard to truly believe you deserve the success you’ve been given. Speaking up for myself and becoming my own advocate is an ongoing challenge.

Can you share strategies or personal experiences that have helped you overcome these challenges and thrive in your leadership role?

I remember the first time I spoke up and negotiated with my manager for something I thought I deserved. After the interaction, my manager let me know how proud they were that I did so. Having a great leader, one that supports you in that way, is incredibly important to thrive in any role. If you don’t currently have this type of leadership in your organization, I encourage you to find one - or become that leader yourself and shape a better culture for your company. 

What are some of the most significant achievements and milestones you've reached at GCommerce Solutions?

I think the most significant achievements and milestones I’ve reached at GCommerce have been since I returned for my second stint. After I first joined GCommerce as a Marketing Specialist, I moved up the ladder and then crossed departments to take a more client-focused role as a Customer Success Manager. Realizing my passion was in managing the campaigns and figuring out platforms, I decided to leave to pursue an opportunity in e-commerce marketing.

There, I found a passion for search engine marketing and when it was time to leave that company, GCommerce offered me a role focused in search. After some time back at GCommerce I was offered the position of Marketing Manager to oversee both sides of our marketing department. I actually turned it down the first time, because it wasn’t what I wanted at the time. I think saying no to something I didn’t want and realizing I was in control of the path I wanted to take was a really important milestone for me. 

What practical advice would you offer to women who aspire to take on leadership roles in digital marketing?

My advice would be to take on challenges you don’t think you’re ready for or know how to do. Trust in yourself that you have the ability to figure it out and work hard to achieve it. In the words of Phish, it’s “time to put your wingsuit on.” Once you realize everyone is out here just “winging it” you’ll realize you’re more qualified and deserving than you think. Then, once you get there - remember to advocate for yourself and others along the way.

How do you perceive the role of diversity and inclusion in fostering innovation and driving success within your organization and the industry?

I preserve it as crucial in driving innovation and success for an organization. Diversity and the ability to establish a feeling of belonging in an organization provides a culture where people can speak up, share ideas, and offer their unique perspectives. I think this is critical to helping an organization drive success for itself and its clients.