On International Women’s Day this year, we talked with Suzana Sokolov, Cloud Advisor Middle East – Acronis, about her career path, journey as a woman in the IT industry, and much more. Enjoy reading her replies to the nine questions we posed to her.
Suzana: Curiosity! I always looked up to friends who are working in technology and decided to try it out myself. I was always intrigued to understand what is the technology world offering, and why is it so unique and special. I’m glad I did it because it is truly amazing to work for a tech company like Acronis.
Suzana: Whenever there are challenges in life, we overcome them if we have support from our loved ones. Same counts for work. I was lucky to have supportive family and friends, who always helped me keep focused and go forward. My colleagues have also always been very supportive. When you are surrounded by people who care, you always find a way to overcome any challenge.
Suzana: Women are very smart and talented beings.
We, same as men also have different experiences and skills which contribute to the success of a company. By combining these skills, organizations can reach higher goals. Every background and culture has different points of view, we understand and see things differently, so having a diverse workforce will only benefit the organization.
Suzana: I do have more than one, but if I had to choose, it would be my mom.
I have also been lucky to work with a lot of great, talented women in the past. And now in Acronis. I look up at my colleagues and my managers, who are all great women working in a male dominated industry, I am learning something new from them everyday.
Suzana: I love my job! It allows me to learn new things every day. To meet great new people every day. To expect the unexpected.
While being in this role I had to step out of my comfort zone several times and I think it has been the best experience so far.
Suzana: This is a tough question. There is something new happening in so many places and it’s very difficult to follow.
I don’t think we can ever be truly updated nowadays, but I am trying to follow up on what is interesting or important for me. And in the background, I try to learn about what is new and upcoming. I believe the easiest way to be updated lately is through social media platforms as they can be informative and specific.
Suzana: If you can dream it, you can do it! Very simple! This is my favorite quote since I was a kid. It is we who set the goals for ourselves, and we are the only ones who get to decide if we will reach them. There is nothing stopping us other than ourselves.
Suzana: My favorite gadgets are those that keep my kids busy when I need to work. Also all the gadgets that make our life easier and healthier.
Suzana: I would have to say that within a leadership role you need to:-
– Learn as much as you can
– Get out of your comfort zone and try new things
– Listen carefully and improve (take any feedback as constructive)
– Make sure you have fun!
