There is not a single path to becoming a successful leader.

Aspiring leaders need to be ready to ask for what they want, take risks beyond their comfort zone, pivot when necessary, and build a community that provides the support they need

Bridget Perry, CMO, Contentful,

advice to keep growing as a professional & provide leadership to others…

BUILD A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY – model behaviors encouraging balance; talk openly about what balance looks like; balance business growth with career growth of individuals; provide team members with tools & permission to find their right balance

ALWAYS BE READY TO PIVOT – flexibility is necessary to adapt to the market, customer demand & new opportunities

DON’T BE AFRAID TO TAKE RISKS – if hesitant, start small (volunteer to lead a meeting, give a presentation, take on stretch assignment, lead team initiative, etc.)… gradually builds confidence & capability

SPEAK UP FOR WHAT YOU WANT – define what you want & articulate it…. otherwise, risk getting stuck & limiting career growth opps