How Identity Has Influenced a Director Internal Audit at Nasdaq's Career
Early in their career in the male-dominated finance industry, the interviewee struggled with self-doubt, noting that "being a woman...can definitely make things difficult," and that perceived positive traits could be misinterpreted negatively. However, consistent strong performance and self-acceptance ultimately built confidence, transforming initial challenges into strengths that enhanced their career trajectory.
Confidence, Overcoming Challenges, Executive/Leadership, Women in Finance, Workplace Dynamics
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jenna Heffler Beth
Director, Internal Audit
Nasdaq Inc
Penn State University, 2014
N/A
Finance
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Jenna's early career struggles with self-confidence as a woman in the finance industry.
2. Overcoming negative perceptions by proving her value through strong performance and preparation.
3. Developing confidence and using her positive personality to her advantage rather than letting it hold her back.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a woman, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
Early in my career, I struggled as a woman in the finance industry. It's definitely predominated by men, which can make things difficult. As someone who has struggled with confidence a lot in the past, I wasn't very sure of myself or my value as an employee at times.
There's always this perception as a woman where if you're young and bubbly, it might come off negatively, especially to men. For me, growing my career meant truly knowing my worth and value. It also meant staying true to myself and not bending to the expectations of others.
I decided to stay positive and bubbly, but I also came into meetings prepared and executed them well. Even though I struggled with this, I always had my performance to back myself up. As I realized people were seeing me for me and valuing me, it only helped grow my confidence.
Now, I see being a woman in this industry not as something that holds me back, but as something that bolsters me up and makes me stand out.