Panel Discussion: Overcoming Obstacles and Sharing Success Stories

By Linda Wagner, VP, FWSF MarComm

After the roundtable wrap-up, the concluding part of FWSF IWD program was an inspirational panel on Overcoming Obstacles and Sharing Success Stories. Moderated by Sheila Lewis, CEO of Ashton212, the panelists included Evelyn Dilsaver, an independent board director for multiple companies; Marc Doss, Regional Investment Officer, Wells Fargo Private Bank; Dr. Elizabeth Hillman, President of Mills College; and Nicole Sanchez, Founder & Managing Partner, Vaya Consulting. View panel biographies.

Key Takeaways:

• Focus on what is right for the organization vs. your own advancement. It develops trust and a power base that is much stronger than any perceived control you gave up.
• Dream the biggest dream, then break up big goals into small goals and sequentially build on those wins.
• When you leave a job, make those you leave behind feel good, with the thought that you are going to something new that they can be excited about for you.
• Have a network that can catch you when you fall.
• Collaborate and recognize that there are multiple points of view; surround yourself with foils who will tell you what you are not seeing.
• In a new role, listen for the first three months.
• Always believe you can change things, regardless of your title.
• Sometimes you have to give up what you know and what you are comfortable doing in order to achieve even greater success.
• If you want the talent and experience, you can’t expect people to leave out the other parts of themselves out of the workplace.
• Live without fear!

Additional Articles about IWD

Teveia Barnes, FWSF IWD Keynote Speaker: It Takes Courage, Tenacity and a Belief in Oneself
By Marianne LaPorte, FWSF MarComm Co-Chair

Panel Discussion: Overcoming Obstacles and Sharing Success Stories
By Linda Wagner, VP, FWSF MarComm