How Identity Has Influenced a Startup Executive’s Career at a Startup
Navigating a predominantly male and white/Asian tech industry, the executive found it crucial to "be comfortable...being the only woman of color in the room," while assertively countering doubt and finding allies to advocate for their needs. This experience fostered resilience and self-belief, proving capable of achieving amazing things despite systemic challenges.
Overcoming Challenges, Resilience, Executive/Leadership, Communication, Networking
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Rashi Jindani
Startup Executive
Startup
University of California, Berkeley
UCLA Anderson School of Management - MBA
Political Science, American Studies
Arts, Entertainment & Media, Technology
Strategic Management and Executive
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. You must be comfortable being the only woman of color in the room and speak up confidently about your ideas.
2. Be prepared to face doubt and potentially be talked down to, so it's important to remain calm and assertive while showcasing your knowledge.
3. Find allies and be an ally to others; ask for help and advocate for yourself to build confidence and skills in potentially uncomfortable spaces. Remember your capabilities and stay resilient.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a woman of color, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
As a woman of color in a predominantly male, white, and Asian space, I've found that you have to be comfortable with the fact that you might be the only one of color in the room. This shouldn't limit you from speaking up and sharing your ideas, as they are just as valid as anyone else's, even if they look different from yours.
You also have to be ready to face doubt from others because you might not be in the majority. I've experienced people talking down to me at conferences because I'm a young woman of color. It was important for me to remain calm but also show that I was assertive and knowledgeable.
Sometimes, I did overcompensate to ensure people took me seriously. However, being yourself is important. Don't let others walk all over you because they look more like the majority.
Finding and being allies is huge. Helping those around you and asking for help is crucial. I was fortunate to find allies in coworkers, male and female CEOs, and partners at my level.
Being open about your concerns and having them help you advocate for yourself is key to building the skillset to feel comfortable in spaces designed to make you uncomfortable. Remember that you are just as qualified to be there as anyone else. Keep going and stay resilient, because you are truly capable of many amazing things.
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