WOMEN IN TECH BLOG SERIES: NAVIGATING SALES: THE POWER OF MENTORSHIP, BUILDING CONNECTIONS AND LEVERAGING CREATIVITY

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Written By: Haley Ruiz, Senior Manager of Public Sector Channels, Tricentis

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Haley Ruiz is the Senior Manager of Public Sector Channels at Tricentis, where they have been driving public sector initiatives since June 2023. With over four years of experience at SolarWinds in various channel management roles, Haley has a proven track record in enhancing channel strategies and building strong partnerships. In her free time, Haley enjoys cheering on the Capitals, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.

Entering the IT industry can feel intimidating, particularly for women, who comprise less than a third of the workforce. This disparity emphasizes the importance of building meaningful connections and seeking out strong mentors who can provide guidance and support, helping you not only navigate the industry but also thrive within it.

When I first embarked on my journey in IT, I was completely out of my element. With a degree in design, I never envisioned myself in the tech space. My first year as a Sales Development Representative (SDR) was a struggle; I found it difficult to bridge the gap between my creative mindset and the technical demands of my role.

The turning point came when I transitioned into the channel and found a great mentor. This person not only taught me the intricacies of the industry but also encouraged me to harness my creativity in new ways. The most valuable lesson I learned from my mentor was that “People work with people they like.” This simple yet profound truth extends far beyond the tech sector. In every aspect of life, people gravitate towards those they trust and enjoy working with.

With this insight, I discovered how to leverage my creativity to build relationships and add value. I organized engaging partner networking events, crafted monthly newsletters, and designed thoughtful holiday gifting campaigns. These initiatives not only strengthened my professional connections but also allowed me to bring my authentic self into my work, turning what once felt foreign into a space where I could truly flourish.

The greatest takeaways I have had from my seven years in IT are:

  • Find strong mentors. Listen, ask questions, and learn all you can from their experience.
  • Make connections. Networking, meeting new people, and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone leads to future opportunities you may have never thought of. 
  • Find your niche. Discover your strengths and navigate how you can use them to not only enjoy your career but also excel.