Dataprise Women in Technology: Meet Leslie

1. Tell us your story on how you got into technology

My technology path started by training customers on proprietary software. I knew the software so thoroughly that Sales Representatives asked me to demonstrate it on sales calls. That success led me to a sales role where I sold the software, trained on its use, and became first-line support. After taking a career hiatus to raise children, I returned to the workforce selling software for a technology company. Through that, I realized my passion for providing current customers with an amazing service experience and have molded my current role to fulfill that passion.

2. Did you always know that working in technology was what you wanted to do?

I never thought of specifically going into the technology industry. It happened organically from the opportunities I was presented with. But once I started on that path, I’ve never diverted off. All my experiences enhanced my soft skills and gave me a thirst to learn more about the technical side of software and services.

3. How long have you been with Dataprise?

I’ve been with GDV since December 2019 and then came to Dataprise through acquisition in January 2022 so a total of a little over 3 years.

4. Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?

My days are ever-changing, so no two looks alike. For GDV customers, I handle their Account Management, Service Delivery, Escalation Issues, and some Tier 1 support. I also work on BCDR internal projects and with Dataprise teams who need assistance understanding their BCDR customer questions and how to sell the service.

5. What advice would you give to women considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?

Had I known I would be in this industry, I would have taken classes, seminars, or certifications earlier in my career to broaden my technical knowledge base. It’s never too late to learn; however, having a foundation would have given me a better overall understanding. Since this is an ever-evolving industry, it’s important to keep up to date with what is current and to find your niche. Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and push yourself. You’ll never know what you’re capable of if you don’t try.

6. Why do you think it’s important for more women to join the tech industry? How can the broader community support women in tech?

It’s important to have a diverse group of individuals on any internal/external team or project. Women have different types of experiences and can bring those perspectives to help design a holistic plan or create an effective solution. Give women a chance to speak up and listen to their viewpoints.

7. What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the tech industry?

Women are very adaptable and always evolving, so it’s great to be part of an industry that has the same characteristics. Technology is always progressing so there is no time to become complacent because the next new thing is on the horizon and women can help usher those advancements through.

8. What is it that you enjoy most about your current job at Dataprise?

There are many things I love about my job, so it’s hard to isolate just one. However, what brings me the most satisfaction is when an upset customer allows me a chance to speak with them. I focus on understanding their frustrations and then try to figure out a way to get their issues fixed with our team. My goal is to bring them a better customer experience, thereby improving our business relationship.

9. What is the best professional advice you’ve ever received?

Be confident in your abilities, listen and have empathy, concentrate on your strengths, show initiative, and don’t be afraid to fail – it’s how you learn and grow.

10. Where do you see yourself going from here?

In the short term, I would like to further develop my role within Dataprise and become more of a BCDR expert. In the long term, I’m keeping the doors open.