Stepping into the Spotlight: International Women's Day 2023

08/03/23
Irvine, California, USA

Today marks the day we celebrate women's social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. HeyGears strives to cultivate an environment that connects, empowers, and advances all women, both professionally and personally. In support of our mission to grow a diverse and inclusive workforce, we've launched a spotlight story for several incredible women at HeyGears, who inspire us.

 


 

Cynthia Wang - HR Generalist

Irvine, USA

 

 

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

 

I'm most proud of setting up the HeyGears US office from scratch. It required close coordination with various stakeholders to ensure a successful launch. I identified and evaluated the potential new office and warehouse locations, taking into account factors such as proximity to clients and accessibility for our employees, coordinating with contractors and vendors to ensure the space was equipped with necessary furniture and supplies, and working with my HR team to recruit and onboard an amazing team of employees for our new office. I established and implemented operating procedures to inform the management team of progress and issues. I want to thank everyone for trusting me to handle these tasks.

 

What advice do you have for women considering a career in HR?

 

While HR is generally seen as female-dominated, women may still encounter gender bias or discrimination in their careers. Women may need to be prepared to address and navigate these challenges and build a strong foundation of HR knowledge to support decisions and promote and embrace diversity and inclusion in the workplace. 

 

How did you get started in the industry?

 

Although I didn't plan to start my career in HR, I stumbled into the field somewhat by coincidence. After graduating from graduate school, my first job was as a technical recruiter at a staffing firm in New Jersey. I quickly discovered a passion for HR. I enjoyed working with people and helping match talented individuals with the right job opportunities.

As I gained more experience in the field, I realized that HR was not just about recruiting and hiring but also about helping create a positive and inclusive workplace culture. I took on roles that allowed me to expand my skill set and knowledge, including employee relations, performance management, and cultural development.

Over time, I found that HR was not only a fulfilling career but also one that aligned with my personal values and interests. I remain passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace and am committed to helping create supportive, equitable, and respectful workplaces for all employees.

 

What do you like to do in your own time?

 

I love to spend more time with my dog and cat when I am free since I am always busy. I also enjoy staying active and taking pilates classes (I've attended 120+ classes in the past year).

 

What has been your favorite project at HeyGears?

 

Building up the US office. 

 

How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career?

 

I'd say being confident is definitely crucial and can help you achieve your goals and navigate life's challenges. Always believe in yourself and your abilities, recognize your strengths and accomplishments, and focus on them as evidence of your capabilities. Also, always learn from failures. Failure is a natural part of the learning process and can be a valuable opportunity for growth and learning.

 


 

Paula Ignez - Sales Manager

Sao Paulo, Brazil

 

 

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

 

I had the courage to change careers. I left an extremely technical area of biological sciences for the corporate world. I conquered my space even without anyone believing that a science person could have strategic, commercial, and leadership vision. I am constantly improving myself and always learning. After all the challenges I've faced and my positions in different companies, countries, and markets, I know I can be whoever I want to be. 

 

What advice do you have for women considering a career in sales?

 

Be curious, gain different types of knowledge, understand the overall operation of companies, and constantly improve. Don't be afraid to take a stand or voice your ideas.

 

How did you get started in the industry?

 

Some time ago! As I mentioned, being a technical person, I knew I had to have an edge to start in this industry environment. I knew that people who spoke English and other languages were rare in my country. Speaking English is essential for the business world. So I lived abroad for a year, and when I returned, I distributed my CV and looked for opportunities. That's how I met my first boss, the director of a leading medical diagnostics company. I started working as a product specialist. He is a mentor and someone I deeply admire to this day. 

 

What do you like to do in your own time?

 

I like to read, stay at home with my puppy and explore new restaurants and food in São Paulo. 

 

What has been your favorite project at HeyGears?

 

The entire process of operationalizing the business in Brazil delights me. I also have a project that I want to get off the ground for HeyGears creators. 

 

How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career?

 

This is hard! Falling and getting up while understanding the power of empathy is important because it is different from being nice. Empathy is when you put yourself in the other's shoes, the other's thoughts, and feelings. This makes you understand other people's difficulties, their way of acting, and understanding.

 


 

Kara Chen - GTM Manager

Shenzhen, China

 

 

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

 

Connecting with people from around the world and learning about different cultures, ideas, and ways of living. I love building my skills and gaining more knowledge in creative fields.

 

What advice do you have for women considering a career in marketing?

 

I would advise women to keep up with the latest trends and never stop learning. Be open-minded and take in new ideas for marketing. Everyone perceives digital content in different ways. You have to be aware of this and present your story in different forms.

 

How did you get started in the industry?

 

I graduated with a bachelor's degree in communications. I was interested in 3D printing technology but wasn't sure what field I wanted to focus on. Luckily I found HeyGears through an old colleague and learned just how much change we are trying to do at this company. We are trying to change people's lives, which is something I am really proud of.

 

What do you like to do in your own time?

 

I love being with my dog, camping with friends, and playing sports. I have recently begun to take diving classes which I am really enjoying.

 

What has been your favorite project at HeyGears?

 

I am working on a special upcoming project with some colleagues. I can’t say too much about it right now, but I am excited to announce it later on in the year!

 

How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career?

 

I have built my confidence through all the small steps and achievements I have accomplished throughout my career. Too often, people focus on the big picture but forget that growth and enjoying life happens through the little things. Every decision I have made has brought me to where I am today, and for that, I am thankful. I also constantly look for feedback from colleagues. If I can improve in specific fields of work, I jump at a chance to learn them. Always be positive and look to grow, be nice to people, and support your colleagues because if you do that, they will also support you.

 

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