Looking back on our first-ever Women in Digital Breakfast at Sitecore Symposium, we had an inspiring and impactful gathering focused on empowerment, leadership, and allyship in the digital industry. The goal was to celebrate the achievements of women and provide a platform for them to share their thoughts and experiences from an industry that is constantly evolving.
Featured Speakers:
- Moderator: Megan Mueller Jensen, Portfolio Specialist, Perficient
- Panelist: Kathie Johnson, Chief Marketing Officer, Sitecore
- Panelist: Ashley Spiro, Global Head of Website Factory
- Panelist: Elycia Arendt, Director of Application Development, National Marrow Donor Program
There was no shortage of meaningful discussions during the event. Below are a few of the memorable moments and key takeaways from our panelists about the importance of allyship, redefining success, and practical steps for change.
Watch the Highlights
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Allyship Matters
While the event celebrated women in digital, the presence of male allies who attended was emphasized as crucial to progress. Supporting female colleagues, amplifying their voices, and advocating for inclusivity are key actions that drive real change.
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Creating a More Equitable Workplace
Panelists highlighted the importance of supporting women in leadership roles and rethinking hiring and promotion practices, showing that challenging existing processes is both necessary and valuable. Simple yet powerful changes such as ensuring diverse interview pools and fostering mentorship can make a lasting impact.
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The Power of Community and Giving Back
Instead of traditional event swag, donations were made on behalf of those in attendance to the American Cancer Society in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This gesture reinforced the importance of purpose-driven initiatives in the corporate space while supporting and championing the women in our lives who have been impacted by breast cancer.
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Reshaping Definitions of Success
Success isn’t just about titles and promotions but about making an impact. Our panelists shared how their definition of success has evolved, highlighting the importance of fulfillment, mentorship, and work-life balance. They emphasized the power of leadership that inspires and supports others, encouraging professionals to be the kind of managers they once wished for in their own careers.
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Supporting Women Re-Entering the Workforce
The pandemic had a disproportionate impact on women, many of whom were forced to leave the workforce to care for children, aging parents, or other relatives. Technology provides a strong opportunity for these individuals to re-enter the workforce and companies should make a concerted effort to actively welcome and support returning women, offering flexibility and resources to help them succeed.
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Authenticity and Confidence in Leadership
Women frequently hesitate to take credit for their achievements, often downplaying their success. This underscores the need for cultural change that encourages women to confidently own their accomplishments and push for equal recognition. Our panelists encouraged attendees to own their success, advocate for themselves, and challenge outdated perceptions of leadership. Women need to take up space and be proud of what they’ve achieved while also acknowledging the contributions of others.
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Practical Steps for Change
Attendees were urged to take tangible actions, such as:
- Speaking up for female colleagues, whether they are present or not.
- Encouraging women to apply for leadership roles.
- Recognizing and addressing unconscious biases in hiring and promotions.
- Offering flexibility to caregivers and parents.
Our panel served as a powerful reminder that collective efforts can drive meaningful change. By fostering inclusivity and championing one another, we can shape a more equitable and dynamic digital industry.
We look forward to seeing you at our next Women in Digital panel at Sitecore Symposium 2025 in Orlando!
