Ana Paula Assis: “Marketing pessoal é algo fundamental”
Ana Paula Assis: Journey to Leadership at IBM
Early Career and Education
- Ana Paula Assis, 44 years old, holds a degree in Computer Science and is the President of IBM for Latin America.
- She began her career with IBM as an intern when the company opened four internship positions in Brazil, which was a rare opportunity.
- Her ambition was not initially to reach a presidential position; she sought opportunities for learning and global experience.
Diversity and Leadership
- Ana emphasizes that diversity has been part of IBM's culture since its inception, promoting equality regardless of gender or race.
- Leading in a predominantly male environment feels natural due to the company's inclusive culture; she has never faced significant issues related to her gender.
Personal Development and Mindfulness
- Preparation is key for her interactions; she focuses on objective discussions to minimize misinterpretations.
- LinkedIn is her preferred social media platform for professional networking, while she enjoys Instagram for cultural content.
Work-Life Balance and Self-Care
- Ana maintains discipline in her routine but adapts based on events. She practices yoga on weekends due to time constraints during the week.
- Meditation aids concentration at work, especially when making important decisions.
Influences and Inspirations
- "The World of Sofia" is a book that shaped her understanding of philosophy; she values biographies as examples of real leadership.
Breaking Barriers as a Female Leader
Legacy and Impact
- As the first female president of IBM in Latin America, Ana aims to leave a legacy focused on impact rather than just breaking barriers.
Gender Dynamics in Professional Growth
- Women often feel less deserving than men regarding promotions or salary increases; this self-doubt can hinder their progress.
Overcoming Self-Sabotage
- After feeling stagnant in her career, Ana sought coaching which helped her recognize self-sabotaging behaviors that limited her potential.
The Importance of Networking
Proactivity in Career Advancement
- Personal branding and networking are crucial for women seeking leadership roles; being proactive about career aspirations is essential.
Financial Independence
- Ana manages her investments personally but acknowledges time constraints limit how much she can focus on them.
Travel Preferences and Cultural Interests
Passion for Art and History
- Traveling primarily for leisure allows Ana to explore art museums and historical sites around the world. Florence is noted as one of her favorite cities.
Qualities of Female Leaders
Empathy in Leadership
- Women tend to exhibit greater empathy compared to men, fostering better relationships within teams. This quality enhances collaborative environments.
Advice for Young Professionals
- She advises young women entering their careers to manage anxiety effectively by focusing on growth rather than perfectionism.