So What if I am a Woman? Laura Cruz CIO, SSCG Group, LLC

A little something When things go wrong we tend to blame others and when things go right we tend to take the credit.

A little about me… BS in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics – 1988 MS in Computer Science from NYU – 1991 Started a career in IT in 1990 Started as VTAM Systems Programmer, evolved to LAN/WAN project management and Global Infrastructure management Always been a go-getter I love a challenge and I love seeing things make a difference Married for 6 years I am a mother - 2 boys, 2 ½ and 4 ½ I work full time I never thought I’d be doing this presentation

Career Achievement Don’t believe being a woman had anything to do with how I got to be a CIO Committed and passionate about my job Communication and follow through Work hard and put in long hours Considered all projects, regardless of size or scope, as an opportunity If I was unhappy, I looked for a solution

Leadership An effective leader: – Is calm during a crisis – Is decisive – Is aware of his/her weaknesses – Gives credit to others – Is concerned about the welfare of employees Women are perceived at having stronger “softer” leadership skills – leads by building consensus, concern for employee welfare, etc. Men are perceived as charismatic, decisive, and assertive.

Overlooked Skills Multi-tasker Listener Nurturer Driver Doer Psychologist These skills tend to provide balance to the culture. And, in a service business they can move the clients forward in a positive way.

What happens with Marriage and Children? Priorities change overnight You definitely change, and that’s OK. You mellow out. You now have two full time jobs, both requiring more than 100% effort Multi-tasking, being efficient, delegation and organization become the KEYs to continued success.

Challenges Work/Life Balance – Hours – Priorities change depending on time of day – Blackberry habits Easy to get overwhelmed Knowing when to separate work from family – How much kid talk is too much? – How many pictures on my desk is too much? Guilt

Keys to Success Weed through the emotions and don’t take things personally Address the problem, not the emotion Stay focused Listen first, then speak up Be open to suggestions and ideas of others Empower and delegate, share the credits You can leave because you have another appointment, you don’t have to say why Always do what’s right for the business, not for you Be compassionate – it helps your career and your life Practice courageous truth and honesty Have an open door

So What If I Am A Woman? Career wise, it shouldn’t matter. I didn’t think it mattered but… – Personally, there’s a lot on your shoulders – It’s a balancing act and you have to know when it’s appropriate for each side to take priority – There’s an opportunity to utilize the skills you are naturally better at – Learning how to say “No” is empowering