Over years we have seen women grow in the regional IT channel community when it comes to holding top spot in companies, planning channel strategies and so on. Channel Post spoke to Elham Alizadeh, the Channel Marketing Manager at ESET, to find out what made her choose IT as a career choice.
Please tell us something about yourself.
I am a kind of person who never likes to settle for monotony and always looks for challenges. Because of this, I take up arduous and risky tasks that require me to constantly learn new skills and optimize my abilities. I approach each opportunity with a can-do attitude and apply myself completely to the task at hand- no matter what challenges arise- because I know that the rewards of success justify the effort.
I believe that striking a healthy work-life balance is essential. Making sure that I always love the job which I am in is a big part of achieving this. I maintain an optimistic outlook and try to enjoy every second of both my professional and personal life.
What made you choose IT / IT channel industry as a career choice?
I admit that I am career oriented so when deciding on where I would like to be, I looked at the market and noticed the massive potential for growth in the IT sector. In the region, this is alive and challenging and I was very excited to be a part of this. And while traditionally IT was a male dominated field, the have been changes in the mindset in recent years. Women are increasingly participating in vital job roles that not just support business but in fact help it grow.
What sort of opportunities is present for women in the IT channel industry?
Overall women have plenty of opportunities in developing countries especially in industries like IT which has been sort of male-oriented over the years. This archaic mindset has actually compelled women to strive harder than their male counterparts. I believe that women are naturally dedicated and hard-working and bring a fresh perspective to the organization.
Is it easy or difficult working with male co-workers especially in the day-to-day trading environment?
It is only a problem when women are judged on gender rather than on their abilities. I enjoy a very good professional relationship with my male colleagues because I feel that we compliment each other’s capabilities very well.
What challenges do you face on a day to day basis?
Today’s market is so competitive so every single day I need to come up with new and creative ideas to ensure that ESET remains relevant with market trends in the field of marketing. Moreover I have a wide channel with varying preferences and sensitivities and so I need to constantly make sure all my channel partners’ requirements are fulfilled.
Who is your role model? Why?
I believe in learning from example and one of the finest role models I’ve had in my professional life was my manager at my first job in Dubai. He was a self-motivated, high achiever. Despite being result-oriented, he always remained conscientious of his team’s needs. I learned a lot from him and often try to guess how he reacts in different situations.
What would you term to be one of your biggest achievements in your career?
As a marketer, I measure my successes by my ability to implement novel activities and initiatives that result in quantifiable benefits for my sales team and our channel partners. Having a strong brand recognition helps them achieves their numbers so when the market perceives my organisation as an industry leader, I know that I have accomplished my goal. Of course this is an ongoing activity so I can never rest on my laurels!
How easy/difficult is it juggling family and work life?
It is quite easy and I believe that women would agree that is actually easier than it looks. It definitely helps to have a supportive family and an understanding manager. I find that my ability to juggle both of these roles is because I am flexible, quick to react and love challenges.
What is your advice for young female professionals?
They should believe in their capabilities and never short sell themselves. In addition they should be quick learners and acquire different skills.
Market trends and mentalities are changing and there is plenty of opportunity for those who are dedicated and motivated.
What more do companies need to do in order to encourage women to take up top jobs?
I think they do not need to do much, just trusting women- they find their ways up themselves. Though some alternative work arrangements like flexitime and telecommuting might be helpful.
