Summary: Women's Hemispheric Network Annual Conference and Networking Event

How important is networking, and how can women network better? Why is it important for women to speak up on the job? How can working parents communicate better with their children? How can men engage to improve gender parity in the workplace? On October 9, the AS/COA Women’s Hemispheric Network’s Annual Conference and Networking Event in New York convened a select group of public and private sector female leaders who shared their personal stories and answered these relevant questions with young professionals. AS/COA President and CEO Susan Segal gave opening remarks, followed by a panel, a keynote address, a second panel, and table discussions.

Panel: “Lessons from Women in Leadership”

Speakers:

• Kathleen Barclay, Principal, Asesorías KCB Ltda.
• Katia Bouazza, Managing Director, Head of Capital Financing, Latin America, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc.
• Susan Segal, President and CEO, Americas Society/Council of the Americas
• Tony Sirianni, Global Trade Leader, Ernst & Young (moderator)

While raising key issues executive women face in their careers, the panel called attention to the importance of engaging men to achieve gender parity in the workplace. Kathleen Barclay remarked that the difficulties women face should be considered a problem for everyone in society, not just females. This is crucial for understanding that men also have a message they can communicate to other men to get them involved in the struggle for gender equality at work. Based on her personal and professional experience, Katia Bouazza related that positive, functional working relationships between women and men must be founded on effective communication. Moderator Tony Sirianni underscored the significance of language in the workplace. He advised women to be direct and assertive—for the good of the company and themselves—and added that not speaking up or sharing one’s ideas can actually set back the company’s progress.

When asked about work-life balance, Susan Segal assured the audience that it is possible for parents to maintain healthy relationships with their kids while advancing their careers. Throughout her own career, she made a point of explaining her professional decisions to her children, and as a result, they adapted to her work-life and communicated better with her. Bouazza and Sirianni agreed that there was no single correct formula to balance personal sacrifice and career aspirations. Sirianni encouraged the members in the audience to know their limits as parents. Bouazza advised that women not allow work to prevent them from having a family if they desire to have one.

The panel also stressed the value of networking. Bouazza commented that it is evident that women are already hardworking, diligent, and persevering. When referring to networking, Bouazza proposed that women work smarter, not harder. She encouraged women to market themselves and tell people about the work they do, as no one can represent you better than you can. Barclay noted that while the technical aspect of work is important, it is critical for women to develop broader connections and relationships beyond their work networks to advance their careers.

The panel concluded with general advice for the executive women. Barclay advised the women to know themselves, to do what they love, and to create their own definition of success. Bouazza suggested they decide on a career they are passionate about because with that passion they will create opportunities not only for themselves but also for others. Segal urged women to be confident and not be afraid to speak up. She also recommended said one should enjoy what one does; if not, one will not excel. Sirianni concluded by advising women to be courageous and take advantage of every opportunity as time will not wait for them.