Women in Media: Expert Advice for Success from Industry Trailblazers

March 07, 2024 - by

In celebration of Women's History Month and International Women’s Day, we're excited to amplify the voices of women shaping the digital media industry. In this special blog post, we've gathered insights and impactful advice from a diverse group of women who have made their mark in the industry. Their experiences, challenges, and triumphs offer valuable lessons for women navigating their own paths in media. From leadership tips to career advice, these women share their best pieces of wisdom to inspire and empower others throughout the industry. We asked one simple question:

What’s your best piece of advice for other women within the media industry? 

Laura Gaffney

"Don't be afraid to voice your ideas, opinions, and concerns. Your perspective is valuable, and your voice deserves to be heard."

Laura Gaffney
Chief Growth Officer, Adapex
Catherine Beattie

"Never underestimate the value of creating and maintaining relationships with your colleagues and industry peers. Even colleagues internally that are across different departments – the more you understand and can connect with areas in the company other than your own, the more knowledgeable you’ll be about the bigger picture and how everything works together. And your industry peer connections will come in handy when you need to rely on others’ expertise and insight, as well as sharing your own. This industry isn’t as large as you would think, in a good way – it can feel like a very supportive, accessible community, if you take the time to connect with others."

Catherine Beattie
Director of Programmatic, WeatherBug
Jess Breslav

"Embrace your unique perspective and voice, build a supportive network, continue learning, advocate for yourself and others, and remember that resilience is key."

Jess Breslav
Chief Customer Officer, Index Exchange
Jana Meron

"Be curious and don't be afraid to ask questions."

Jana Meron
Strategic Advisor, Lioness Strategies
Headshot Test

"Speak your truth and ask for what you want. The answer is always no if you don't ask. Do it with kindness."

Lauren Kane
Ad Sales Planning & Strategy Executive
Kristina Kaganer

"Don't be afraid to be yourself and really show up. I see too many women trying to make themselves smaller or question their knowledge. The reality is that they have earned the right to be in the room just as much as anyone else."

Kristina Kaganer
Head of Data Strategy, Publicis Media
Nola Solomon

"Don't be afraid to speak up in every meeting, whether it's a small point, a clarifying question, or an opportunity to opine on your area of expertise -- make your presence known! The other big one would be to say "yes" to every opportunity -- especially the ones that scare the crap out of you. Growth is discomfort, and comfort only comes by doing, and growth only comes from pushing beyond what is comfortable."

Nola Solomon
SVP, Global Go-to-Market Strategy & Commercialization, Criteo
Shaina Lam

"Ask questions and advocate for yourself. Ask for more opportunities, ask for constructive feedback, ask for more clarity. Advocate for yourself with confidence and professionalism."

Shaina Lam
VP, Demand Partnerships, Freestar
Laura Krebill

"Leap and the net will appear."

Laura Krebill
Sr. Sales Director
Madeleine Tu
Madeleine Tu
Video Advertising Operations Manager, BLOX Digital

"It is good to have an adaptable mindset. Our industry is constantly evolving. In order to grow, we need to be receptive to getting out of our comfort zones and giving ourselves permission to make mistakes."

Lauren Stearley

"My best piece of advice for women in the media industry is to be confident in your abilities and value your unique perspective. Speak up, share your ideas, and assert yourself in meetings and collaborations.  Remember that your self-worth is not defined by external validation or stereotypes. Trust in your skills and talents and don't hesitate to pursue your goals with determination and resilience."

Lauren Stearley
Director of Programmatic, CMI Media Group
Priti

"Stay curious, discover your strengths, and network. Explore how you can increase impact within your role, your company and your network by leveraging your unique strengths. Then surround yourself with peers whose strengths complement yours. Knowing what you excel at and leveraging it in the right way is key to career growth, faster learning, and confident self-advocacy. Programs like StrengthsFinder have proven invaluable for me and countless other women in my network. Happy Women’s History Month, ladies!"

Priti Powell
Chief Strategy Officer, Assertive Yield
Shachar Oren

"The media and ad tech industries tend to be a more male dominated environment - which can seem intimidating. But on the other hand, it means more women’s voices and POVs are needed in it - especially in teams in charge of generating revenue. Don’t stay away from areas where your unique voice can bring an even bigger impact." 

Shachar Orren
Co-Founder and CMO, EX.CO

Speak to an expert

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About Tammy Blythe Goodman

Tammy Blythe Goodman joined EX.CO as Head of Brand Marketing and Communications in January 2022. Prior to EX.CO, Tammy managed global communications at Taboola, Innovid, and SpotX, respectively. She has an MFA in Film from Columbia University and a BA in Communications and Literature from American University. Tammy lives in New York City and is a proud rescue dog owner and passionate pluviophile.

Topics

Women in Tech, Industry News, Digital Publishing, Media Buying, Digital Advertising,

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