As we danced our way into the Women in Insurance reception at the recent Guidewire Connections conference, we were filled with so much pride to see the queue to get in. The upbeat sounds of “I’m Every Woman” featuring Chaka Khan and Whitney Houston made it impossible not to bop around. Hearing the roar of laughter and seeing the joy as friends hugged, we knew this was the place to be. Women from Guidewire, our partners, and our customers filled the room, and connections were being made.
We had the great privilege to host a Women in Insurance reception with our sponsor PwC. With our esteemed host and Guidewire’s Chief Evangelist, Laura Drabik, we heard from six female industry executives who shared quick anecdotes about their experiences as women in this male-dominated industry. My takeaway was simple – don’t wait. Don’t wait for the mentor. Don’t wait for the program. Don’t wait for permission. And, definitely don’t listen to that monkey in the mirror. She doesn’t know anything.
Here are some soundbites from our speakers:
-
Simone Labady, Aioi Nissay Dowa NZ – “Learn to ignore the "monkey in the mirror" telling you not to try.”
-
Tatjana Lalkovic, Definity – “One day we shouldn't need a "Women in Insurance" reception.”
-
Michelle Raue, Preferred Mutual Insurance Company – “Be bold and try new opportunities.”
-
Tracy Riley Wawanesa Insurance – “Networking was critical for me. Remember to pay it forward.”
-
Leila Kagawa, HEMIC – “Carve your own path.”
-
Sinéad A. Condon – “Don't give up if there isn't a program offered at your company; take ownership and build your own.”
-
Matthew Wolff, PwC – “We know there is disparity in female leadership. PwC is dedicated to targeting females early so they don't fall out of the leadership track.”
We are grateful that many years ago a former Guidewire colleague decided not to wait. Sandia Ren started GROW: Guidewire’s Recognition of Women as a way to help women feel seen and heard. It’s our privilege to co-lead this program and carry the torch.
We had the opportunity to make so many great connections at this event, ones we will take forward with us and continue to explore. And, we are hoping to make our event even bigger and better next year!
As the evening wound down, the energy in the room was palpable. Each time someone said something, the enthusiasm continued to build. The power of this female community is unmatched. Hop on the wave and see where it takes your ideas.