Happy International Women’s Day from Paper Mart!

It’s safe to say that our Paper Mart team would not be the same without the extraordinary women who lead our company with passion and purpose. They have shaped the success of our business with their invaluable expertise and innovative vision, elevating Paper Mart to new heights within our industry. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on their achievements and their indelible impact on our company.

Join us as we delve into the inspiring journeys of these exceptional leaders!

On Being A Woman In Leadership & Success

What is the most challenging part about being a woman in a leadership position and what has helped you succeed?

Allison: When I was starting out, I didn’t have strong female business leaders to model my career after. Many were overcompensating by being tough or competitive. As I moved into leadership positions, it was important for me to be a good example to my female employees. 

A great legacy is to set up the next generation of female leaders for success. By supporting and nurturing their talents, we’re teaching them they can succeed and be themselves at the same time.

Chitra: I attribute a large part of my success as a leader to continuous learning and skill development, visionary thinking, leading with integrity and empathy, focusing on results, embracing change & and maintaining resilience and persistence despite setbacks.

Erika: As a woman in a leadership position, I believe the most challenging part is navigating the double standards and biases that still exist in our society. Women are often expected to be nurturing and collaborative, which can sometimes be perceived as weakness or indecisiveness in a leadership role.

However, what has helped me succeed is staying true to my values and leadership style. I have found that being authentic and confident in who I am as a leader has earned me respect from my colleagues and team.

Linda: IT is a highly male dominated profession, Paper Mart looked beyond my gender and saw the skills that I had to offer.

Sherie: Personally, success has and continues to be a collaborative effort with my team, my colleagues and, of course, my family. I feel you cannot truly be successful without the support of them all.

What advice do you have for those striving to achieve a leadership role?

Chitra: Cracking the glass ceiling can be challenging, but not impossible. So, hone your leadership skills, find a mentor, set reasonable goals and draw out a career plan, develop a strong support network, be brave and proud to stand out.  

Erika: For those striving to achieve a leadership role, my advice would be to stay focused on your goals and not let anyone discourage you from pursuing them. Find role models and mentors who can offer guidance and support.

Linda: Set your goals and work hard toward them. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. 

Allison: Being a good leader takes time. Empowering your team and helping them thrive in their environment requires keen observation and listening. Finding out what motivates each individual and knowing how to challenge them without overwhelming them will provide the greatest results.

It’s also important to bring your authentic self to work. My Dad instilled in me from an early age to act as if everything I did would be known by all. Throughout my career, I would feel pressure to be someone I wasn’t, but at the end of my career, I will be proud of my decisions and accomplishments because they were done with my values.  

Sherie: You have to be willing to work as a team, be open to others and their suggestions or advice. Stand by what you believe in and trust your gut.

On Role Models, Personal Growth, & Paper Mart  

What do you like about working at Paper Mart and specifically working with other women on the team?

Sherie: Currently my team consists of all women. I feel we all work well together whether we are in agreement or have differences of opinions.

My hope is that my team trusts me and feels comfortable discussing with me any and all concerns they may have.

I also feel Paper Mart allows women to have an active voice. I do not feel stifled or limited by being a woman in any way.

Linda: I love the comradery. Everyone is always willing to help each other.

Chitra: I really enjoy working at Paper Mart because we have strong and positive leadership and encourage a healthy work environment for our employees. We also effectively use technology to stay current and are willing to take risks in our efforts to provide excellent customer service.

I have the privilege to be seated at the table with extremely strong, intelligent, and gracious women leaders who lead and inspire others with their deep knowledge, experience, and a quiet confidence that makes them truly authentic role models.

Erika: I truly appreciate the inclusive and supportive work environment that Paper Mart fosters. It is evident that diversity and equality are a priority, and it reflects in the culture and atmosphere of the workplace.

Working with other women on the team has been a source of inspiration and motivation for me. We have a sense of camaraderie and support that I find invaluable. Having women in leadership positions is also encouraging, as it provides me with positive role models and the confidence that my contributions and hard work are valued.

Are there women or role models that have opened doors for your career or personal growth?

Allison: Early on I had a boss that coached me to speak up and share my ideas and accomplishments with my colleagues. I made the mistake of assuming everyone was noticing my good work and I would seem boastful if I shared.

Over the years, I’ve found that women will often keep quiet and not speak up like their male counterparts, and this can ultimately hold you back in your career.  

Linda: My Mother. She never let anyone tell her she couldn’t achieve her goals.

Chitra: I have been very fortunate to have amazing leadership coaches, both women and men who have mentored, encouraged, and supported me on this journey of personal growth and I am very grateful to each and every one of them.

How Paper Mart Celebrates Women’s History Month

Women make up almost half of our workforce here at Paper Mart, and our team wouldn’t be what it is without their contributions. This year, we took the opportunity to recognize and celebrate Women’s History Month in a big way. Our wonderful HR department hosted special activities that highlighted the accomplishments of female leaders and women’s rights movements throughout history. It was a great chance to honor the women who have helped shape our world!

Happy Women’s History Month from Paper Mart!

Women’s History Month is a time to look back in admiration and awe at the brave, daring and visionary women of the past. However, it is also a time to reflect on the current and thriving accomplishments of the amazing women working today.

Every day, we are inspired by the incredible women working at Paper Mart. Thanks to their untiring dedication and creative inventiveness, we have been able to grow and serve you – our Paper Mart family – for over 100 years. We are proud to celebrate the positive impact of these hardworking and innovative women this month and every month!