Women on Wednesday with Lieneke DeStigter

As more and more women join and take leadership positions in the technology industry, it’s important to shine a light on the incredible work that they do. This has been an ongoing priority at Precisely and to ensure that there are resources in place to support and advocate for women in the business, the Precisely Women in Technology (PWIT) program was established. PWIT brings women from across the organization together to support one another, offer mentorship opportunities, host networking events, and much more.

Each month, a member of the program is featured in this Q&A to offer insights into her career and offer advice to other women in the same field. Continue reading to learn more about Lieneke DeStigter, Senior Specialist, Sales Operations – Channel, and her experience as a woman in technology for over 13 years.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in technology?

Before I started my career, technology wasn’t initially on my radar. When I was younger, my biggest dream was to travel the world for business. So, I studied International Business, spent six months living and studying in France, and completed my internship in Costa Rica. I was always very interested in working for an international company and I believe things happen for a reason. My career started when an opportunity at Pitney Bowes came up and I was curious to find out what it would bring. The journey started 13 years ago, and here we are today. I enjoy working in this vibrant and ever-evolving environment. I feel appreciated for my impact in the business and my day-to-day contact with colleagues and Precisely partners.

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

Becoming a second-time mom is when I met Candace Mehalko. The moment of becoming a first or second-time mom is joyful and challenging at the same time. It brought uncertainty for me; my body is changing, I’m transforming from an individual to a family, my daytime and nighttime routine is shaken up, and I still want to contribute professionally as I did before. These are real struggles that a lot of mothers face, so it was reassuring to know I wasn’t alone. Candace taught me to be confident, take on challenges at work, and to trust my gut. While she was an inspiration specifically at that time, I see that in every phase of my career, I have the opportunity to meet more inspirational people.

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

If there’s one moment that I can point to, it was when I moved from marketing to sales and started my current role as a Channel Manager. I was part of a successful team of seven, based in the Netherlands, and everything was working well. As a team, we were meeting our targets and having a lot of fun. This is when I was asked to take on the position as Channel Manager Benelux. Although my colleagues thought I was ready for it, I was lacking confidence and didn’t feel entirely ready. I took on the challenge and I was determined to make it a success. I worked hard, I felt uncomfortable, and I faced difficulty. The reward was gaining extra confidence in myself and making the business thrive. In the end, I expanded my skillset, overcame my limitations, and learned new areas of the business.

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

From my perspective, there are few gender issues at Precisely and that’s partly to do with the fact that there are so many great women within the organization. The main challenge I’ve faced as a woman in technology is work-life balance. As a mom of three, growing your career and at the same time as growing your family isn’t always easy. But being present on the moments that matter is the solution. When I’m at work – I am 100 percent there. When I’m at home, I’m 100 percent present and committed to my family. I try to remember to work, laugh and push my boundaries!

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 try, experiment, and keep learning. Don’t sit around and wait for the magic to happen while you’re thinking about what could be next. Go beyond your comfort zone because that’s where the growth happens.

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

As a young woman, working in a fast-paced environment where there are high expectations can be overwhelming. The change from being a student, to being a young woman early in her career, and then to having a family can all be drastic, but it’s important to keep following your path. I’ve had my moments of uncertainty, but when I followed my heart, it all worked out.

So, stand by your values, trust your gut, and don’t be shy and ask for help.

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

Cheer on your colleagues! Be proud of them and celebrate your successes. After a call with a customer, a partner, or team, pick up the phone and compliment your colleague on their work. It’s a team effort and without supportive colleagues, it is harder to grow.

Learn more about us on our Careers and Culture page.