RECAP: A Crisis-Free Life vs. a Crisis-Charged Workload — March Brown Bag Panel Discussion

On Tuesday, March 10th, the Case Foundation, LEVICK (@LEVICK) and the Professional Development Committee  welcomed about 50 guests who engaged in a riveting discussion on how to handle crises in the office as well as at home, achieving work-life balance and what "having it all" really means for women in PR.  The panelists spoke candidly about their personal experiences and gave guidance to attendees who were curious about how to handle work-place issues that affect many of us on a daily basis.  The knowledgeable panelists  included:

• Moderator: Kara Flynn, Vice President, LEVICK
• Tara Galvin, Director, North America Communications, SAP
• Diane Lebson, Director, Women in Philanthropy, American Red Cross
• Shannon Campagna, Director of Legislative Affairs, Mars, Incorporated

Each of these women enjoy incredible careers and have achieved success and happiness as they define it personally.  Their varied experiences made for a well balanced panel with common values and concerns, but different opinions and approaches.  For example, when asked how to handle a crisis (at work or at home), the panelists had different advice.  In Shannon's opinion, defining what is a crisis is key -- she cautioned attendees that not every problem that arises is truly a crisis.  Tara's stance was that she's the same person at home as she is at work.  This helps her to think clearly and be direct in any crisis situation.  Diane takes a more 'zen' approach and turns to her training as a yoga instructor.  She encouraged guests to take a deep breath and create space for themselves when confronted with a crisis.   Key takeaways from the discussion are as follows:

• Stress is contagious, don't let it impact your relationships.
• Setting boundaries is important at work and at home.
• The concept of "leaning in" is important.  Be sure to interpret what it means for you as it will change through out your career.
• Mentors can be any age!  Have several different mentors to utilize various vantage points. For example, consider a male mentor or a younger mentor.  A mentorship doesn't have to be formal, consider it a relationship in which you learn.
• When joining a networking organization, be involved for genuine reasons.

All of the panelists are looking forward to a future in which women are seen and treated as equals, where women can work hand in hand and respect each other's decisions.   To register for upcoming WWPR professional development events, including the highly anticipated Speed Mentoring event (presented in partnership with Hager Sharp), visit www.wwpr.org/events.