How Identity Has Influenced a VP Business Development at Propy's Career
Tanya, a VP of Business Development, initially viewed being a woman in finance as a disadvantage, but realized it's a powerful and beneficial position, stating, "I'm gonna be successful here because there is not that much of a competition" and that women's analytical and organizational skills are valuable assets, using an example that the COO of a big financial company is usually a woman. Furthermore, Tanya advises to embrace any perceived insecurities like accents, viewing them as unique strengths that create connection and reduce stress in professional settings.
Women in Finance, Overcoming Insecurities, Cultural Identity, Self-Confidence, Strengths-Based Approach
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Tanya Solati
VP Business Development
Propy
Arizona State University (ASU) - W. P. Carey
University of Miami MSF
Finance
Education, Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Business Strategy
Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Turning Perceived Disadvantages into Advantages: Tanya advises women in finance to view the underrepresentation of women as an opportunity rather than a disadvantage, suggesting it can lead to less competition and greater success.
2. Leveraging Natural Strengths: Tanya highlights that women often possess strong analytical and organizational skills, which are highly valuable in finance, particularly in roles like COO.
3. Embracing Individuality: Tanya shares her experience of initially trying to eliminate her Bulgarian accent but later realizing it's a unique and interesting part of her identity. She encourages others to embrace their insecurities, address them openly, and recognize them as part of what makes them unique.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a woman in finance, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
Being a woman in finance can be difficult. I used to focus only on the negative aspects. Then I realized I should reframe my perspective and see it as an advantage.
If you're a woman, intelligent, and know how to communicate, you can be more successful than a male counterpart with the same qualifications. This is simply because there aren't many women in finance. It's a powerful and beneficial position to be in.
Instead of seeing the low number of women as a disadvantage, view it as an opportunity. There's less competition, which can lead to greater success. Women are often analytical, organized, and detail-oriented, which is why you often see women in COO roles in large financial companies.
Use these qualities to your advantage. Don't let anyone convince you it's a disadvantage, because for most, it's not.
Secondly, I'm from Bulgaria and used to have a thick accent. I worked hard to get rid of it because it was an insecurity. Now, I rarely have it, but if I could go back, I would keep it. There's nothing to be embarrassed about; it's actually quite interesting.
When I meet someone with an accent, I'm immediately curious about their background and experiences. It signifies they're from somewhere else and bring unique knowledge.
If you have an insecurity, like a language accent, consider addressing it upfront. In a meeting, you could say, "I have a slight accent, so please let me know if you have trouble understanding." This can alleviate your anxiety and make the meeting more enjoyable for everyone.
Being anxious is stressful for all involved. So, if you have an insecurity, think about whether it truly holds you back or if it's just a part of who you are. If it's part of you, bring it up early.
This approach can significantly help you. Eventually, you may not even need to mention it as you become more comfortable with yourself. If it is something that truly bothers you, find ways to work through it. Overcoming it will lead to greater security and the ability to achieve your goals.