Women in Biz: Susie Gidseg

Susie Gidseg is a Senior Manager at Dell Technologies. I helped her Global Social Strategy team in the wake of COVID-19. Susie is an inclusive leader and fully integrated me into her team even though I temporarily worked for her.

1. What was the most significant barrier in your career and how did you overcome it?

Early in my career, I struggled with visibility. I was buried deep in an organization and did not have mentors or leaders that fully recognized what I was capable of. I knew that staying at the organization was important to me, and that if anything was going to change, I had to change. While the idea of “networking” always felt a bit inauthentic even as an extrovert, building connections and friendships resonated. I created opportunities for like-minded people to gather and discuss. Additionally, I created initiatives that I was passionate about outside of my individual role that gave me both internal and external visibility. This helped build my circles inside of the company.

2. What personal or professional project are you most proud of?

Four years ago, I was brought on to co-lead a unique internal agency. The content studio was an opportunity to break down barriers between agency/client and remain agile to create quick turn social and digital content, as well as live event coverage. In a previous life, I was a theatre director so the opportunity to create something new in a fast-paced environment alongside passionate creatives excited me.

3. What’s one piece of advice that you would like to give other women? As women, I find there is a universal struggle when it comes to self-advocacy. Start small by sharing an accomplishment with your leader(s). Don’t be afraid to negotiate on your own behalf. Keep a list of things you have achieved that you can pull out of your back pocket when needed or can use to build yourself up if you aren’t feeling it that day. Know your worth and find ways that feel authentic to you to share your accomplishments with others.

Learn more about Susie by reading her blog.