In honor of International Women’s Day, HHAeXchange asked women leaders across the company to share their thoughts on the best advice they’ve been given, how their mentors have guided them in their careers, and how they are giving back as women leaders. 

What’s the best advice you’ve been given in your career?

Htet Htet Aung, Lead UX Designer: “Be passionate about what you do and work hard for what you want.”

Carrie Hofmaster, Senior Director of Global Talent Acquisition: “Lead by example and never stop learning. You do not have to have all the answers to excel and lead, but as long as you use your resources, follow through, and carry yourself in a professional and compassionate manner, you will continue to be valuable.”

Lisa Dugan, Senior Director, Government Health Plans & Channel Partnering: “Always move forward with a “make it happen” mentality.”

Rashmee Shroff, Senior HR Manager: “Be the way you are and encourage others as well. Honor your intuitions and don’t be afraid to speak up. Learning is a lifelong process.”

Courtney Hartman, Director of Client Success: “Be curious! It’s important to ask questions to understand how best to offer solutions. Seek out feedback from clients, colleagues, partners, etc.”

Emily Ivers, Vice President of Financial Planning & Analysis: “Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need – be it time, space or just to be heard.”

Ashley Jones, Director, Revenue Systems: “‘Everyone started somewhere.’ Remembering this will allow you to apply for things you’d have otherwise convinced yourself not to, help you to remain curious, and ensure that you’re always open to your next, great opportunity.”

What women leaders have helped you and how do you help women now?

Amy Green, Vice President of Marketing: “I’ve been really fortunate throughout my career to have a number of incredible women as mentors and leaders. I’m frequently asked to mentor or even have a 30-minute conversation with young adults who are just getting out of college and looking to start a career in marketing. It’s rewarding to give back and share my “what I wish I knew then” lessons. I also spend time with women who have been stay-at-home moms and are looking to get back into the workforce. This can be an intimidating experience, but by helping them discover and articulate their strengths, it gives them the confidence they need to land jobs they didn’t think were possible.”

Kaitlin Olcott, Senior Director of Corporate Communications: “I’ve been very fortunate to have worked for women and men leaders who have made an invaluable impact on my career – one among them here at HHAeXchange – Anna Pavlik! She gave me the autonomy to work on big projects and make an impact, while supporting me with her knowledge, advice, and most importantly- her belief in me and my ability to do my job. I try to help women by sharing my experiences and lessons learned – both successes & failures – but most of all, by believing in them.”​​​​​​​

Shilpa Koranne, Senior Product Manager: “Women leaders have helped me by mentoring me and being role models. I have learnt a lot from shadowing them and learning about their skill set and also by observing their people management skills. I also pay it forward by mentoring, training and ensuring that women in my team are heard. I also encourage them to be an SME in the functional areas they represent.”

Recognizing Global Stevie Award Winner Christie Watson

Watch the below interview to hear from Christie Watson, VP and General Manager of Payer Solutions, on what it means to be a woman leader in healthcare, the best advice she’s received, and how we can encourage more women to pursue senior leadership roles.

Watch The Interview Here