Precisely Women in Technology: Meet Samantha Meurs

With an increasing number of women joining IT, it’s becoming a more inclusive environment. Precisely is committed to building a more inclusive work environment, which is why there are ample opportunities for women in the organization. One of the company’s initiatives is the Precisely Women in Technology (PWIT) program, that was established to be a place for women to come together, support each other, offer guidance, and more. Since its inception, the program has grown, and to highlight the work it’s done, a member of the program is featured each month. This month, Samantha Meurs, Marketing Operations Specialist, who’s been in the tech industry for four years, shares more about her experience as a woman in tech. Continue reading to learn more.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in technology?

I’ve always been fascinated by the possibilities and impact of technology. From a young age, I enjoyed exploring to understand how things function. As I grew older, I soon realized that technology was rapidly transforming and shaping our world. Once I recognized the power of technology, I began to see it’s potential to solve complex problems and improve people’s lives. This realization sparked my passion for technology and motivated me to pursue a career in this field.

Who has been your greatest professional mentor? What’s one thing you have learned from them?

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with several inspiring individuals who have shaped me to be who I am today. One person who stands out is my current manager and marketing operations guru – Jaclyn Wilson. Jackie has taught me many things, not limited to the importance of continuous learning, pushing beyond my comfort zone, and holding oneself accountable.

She’s played a pivotal role in shaping my career and has taught me numerous valuable lessons. One of the most impactful lessons I have learned from her is the importance of clear and effective communication. Jackie’s consistently demonstrated the ability to articulate complex ideas in a concise and understandable manner, which has greatly influenced my own communication style.

Through her guidance, I’ve learned the significance of tailoring my message to different audiences, ensuring clarity and understanding. Jackie has also emphasized active listening, encouraging me to ask thoughtful questions and actively engage in discussions. By practicing effective communication techniques, I’ve not only been able to foster stronger relationships within Precisely and beyond but also enhance conversations on and solutions to current initiatives and team goals.

Furthermore, Jackie’s instilled in me the value of embracing a growth mindset. She’s consistently encouraged me to take on new challenges, learn from failures, and continuously seek opportunities for growth and development. Her belief in my potential has given me the confidence to step outside of my comfort zone and pursue projects where I can develop on and add to my current skillset.

Overall, Jackie’s mentorship has been invaluable in my career journey. This has also shaped my approach to personal development and lifelong learning. I’m grateful for her guidance, the impact she’s had on my professional success, and our professional relationship.

What’s the biggest risk you took in your career? What was the reward?

The biggest risk I took in my career was transitioning from a sales role to a more technical, non-client facing role in marketing operations. This shift required me to learn new skills and adapt to a different domain, despite having a background in marketing.

While it was a big leap, the rewards have been remarkable. By venturing into the world of marketing operations, I gained a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of marketing and developed proficiency in various marketing tools and technologies. This transition allowed me to leverage my marketing knowledge while acquiring new technical skills, which broadened my skillset and has made me more versatile in the industry.

The reward of this risk has been two-fold. First, I have experienced personal and professional growth by stepping outside of my comfort zone and embracing new challenges. This transition has broadened my perspective and provided me with a more holistic view of the marketing landscape. Second, it’s opened exciting opportunities for career advancement and expanded my potential for future roles within the technology and marketing space.

Overall, taking the risk has been a rewarding experience and I wouldn’t change a thing!

As a woman, what challenges have you faced in the technology industry? How have you overcome them?

As a woman in the technology industry, I’ve been fortunate to work in an environment that embraces diversity and inclusivity, allowing me to focus on my skills and contributions rather than facing significant gender-related challenges. I’m grateful to be part of a team where women are well-represented and where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated.

While I can’t speak from personal experience regarding specific challenges, I’m aware that gender disparities and biases continue to exist in the broader technology industry. However, I’m proud to be part of a company that actively promotes diversity and inclusion. We strive to create an empowering atmosphere that values individual contributions, regardless of gender, and fosters a supportive culture for all employees.

I believe that overcoming challenges in any field, including the technology industry, requires a collective effort. By supporting and uplifting each other, advocating for equal opportunities, and promoting diversity, we can work towards a more inclusive industry where everyone can thrive.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? How do you apply it to your personal and professional life?

The best advice I’ve received is to embrace change and see it as an opportunity for growth. In both my personal and professional life, I’ve learned to be adaptable and open to new experiences. I embrace challenges as learning opportunities, and I constantly seek ways to expand my skills and knowledge. This mindset has allowed me to thrive in a fast-paced and ever-changing technology industry.

What’s one piece of advice you’d offer to younger women entering the industry?

My advice to younger women entering the industry is to believe in themselves and their capabilities. Trust in your skills, knowledge, and unique perspective. Surround yourself with mentors and allies who can provide guidance and support. Seek out opportunities to learn and grow, and never be afraid to voice your ideas and contribute to the conversation. Your perspective and contributions are valuable and essential to driving innovation and progress in this field.

As a successful woman in technology, what’s one thing you do to pay it forward and advocate for other women in the field?

One way I contribute is by engaging with and sharing experiences with young professionals who are starting their careers in technology. By sharing my experiences, insights, and lessons learned, I aim to inspire and empower them when navigating their own career journeys. I’ve been grateful to share my experiences with interns and other young professionals who are in similar shoes as I once was. I firmly believe that sharing our experiences and supporting one another can lead to an empowered next generation of women in this field.

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