Kathy Karner Maven of Storytelling Boxilocks
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathykarner/
What does empowerment mean to you as a woman in printing?
Empowerment as a woman in print means I have the same rights and access to industry knowledge, education, and opportunities to contribute, advance, and innovate as men in the field. It also to me comes with a responsibility to advocate respectfully and consistently for myself and other women in the field, even in uncomfortable moments.
Can you share a moment in your career when you felt truly empowered?
I spoke up in a meeting to share my own experiences as a print buyer, and viewpoint as it related to the topic of cold-calling in print sales. This was not well-received. The reason I remember it as a feeling of empowerment was that I gave myself permission to speak up ~ I had relevance to contribute, and I believed my experience had value to add to the discussion, perhaps opening up different, more innovative avenues for discussion. Too often women sit on the sidelines in meetings in male-dominated careers, and it is a tacit acknowledgement of “that is where we belong.” I think we need to empower ourselves to think differently about our role and our seat at the table.
What resources or programs have helped you grow in your career that you would recommend to young women?
I have learned SO MUCH from producing print partners over the years – really knowledgeable sales reps when I was a print buyer, and installers, press operators, production managers, prepress, fulfillment managers. This knowledge strengthened my skills and my value in project management, managing project management teams, and inside and outside print sales. I say come with curiosity and acknowledgement of their expertise~ ask questions, listen, and absorb. And then bring that to our clients.
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