Navigating the Tech World as a Woman: My Conversation with Limor Bergman Gross
I recently had the incredible opportunity to dive deep into a conversation with Limor Bergman Gross on our "Better Than A Pill" podcast. Limor, a seasoned leader in the tech industry with over two decades of experience, shared her journey and insights that I believe are pivotal for anyone looking to balance their career and personal life, especially women in tech.
Let's start with the core of our discussion: the balancing act. As you know, juggling a fulfilling career with personal commitments can be a tightrope walk. Limor opened my eyes to the fact that it's not only possible but manageable with the right approach. She emphasized time management and setting priorities as the keys to maintaining this balance. It resonated with me, and I think you'll find it equally enlightening.
But here's where it gets even more interesting. We often think that hard work and dedication alone will get us noticed and rewarded. However, Limor pointed out a common pitfall many of us fall into – not focusing enough on self-promotion and branding. This is particularly true for women in the workplace. We tend to believe that our work will speak for itself, but as Limor wisely noted, it's not always the case. Men, she observed, have less hesitation in showcasing their achievements and asking for what they deserve. This part of our conversation was a real eye-opener, highlighting the need for women to be more assertive and vocal about their accomplishments and career aspirations.
The topic of remote work also came up, and it's something many of us can relate to, especially in these times. Limor's transition to remote work in 2016 brought her significant work-life balance benefits. But she was quick to point out that remote work's effectiveness is subjective. Some thrive in a home environment, while others need the structure of an office. It's a reminder that there's no one-size-fits-all solution in our work lives.
One aspect of our conversation that I found particularly striking was the importance of health and wellness in our professional lives. Limor shared her personal experiences and the need to prioritize oneself. This includes physical activities, proper nutrition, and adequate rest. For me, this was a reminder that our career ambitions should not come at the cost of our health.
Now, let's talk finances. Limor, having worked in high-paying roles, spoke about the stability and freedom that comes with financial success. But more importantly, she highlighted the need for sensible financial management and living within our means. The idea that success isn't about material possessions but about making smart financial choices is a valuable takeaway.
And then there was the powerful discussion about advocacy in the workplace. Limor advised that just like we would fight for our children's needs, we need to advocate for ourselves in our careers. Being persistent, not easily accepting 'no', and challenging our managers are essential steps to getting what we deserve. This advice is particularly pertinent for women who often shy away from such confrontations.
Towards the end of our conversation, Limor shared her current endeavors. She runs her own company, primarily coaching women in tech leadership roles. Her goal is to help them break through internal barriers and expand their possibilities. It was inspiring to hear how she is using her experience to empower others.
Lastly, we touched upon the topic of entrepreneurship. Limor loves being her own boss and values the freedom it brings, despite the challenges and unpredictability. This part of our conversation was particularly inspiring for anyone contemplating the entrepreneurial leap.
In conclusion, my chat with Limor was nothing short of enlightening. Whether it's finding balance, advocating for oneself, or navigating the intricacies of remote work, her insights are invaluable. I hope you find her advice as empowering as I did. Remember, success in the tech world, or any field for that matter, requires more than just hard work. It demands self-awareness, assertiveness, and the courage to break through barriers.
Until next time, keep pushing boundaries and advocating for your success!