I took a calculated risk in moving from product management to pre-sales

I see the following as the three most important elements in building success:

1. Speak up: It is important to voice your opinions during meetings, even if you have a contrarian view. If you are one of a few women in the room, your unique point of view adds value. Also, having an opinion shows you care.

Back in 2012, we were trying to build a product, but the business case wasn’t strong enough, and a lot of people around me hesitated to bring it up to the senior leadership. So, I chose to step forward. I knocked on all possible doors and persisted. I approached multiple decision makers, and found one who shared the same vision to work together and define the business case in such a way that helped bring the product to life. So, never hesitate to speak up.

2. Proactively build your network: Building a strong professional network is vital to advance in the corporate world. Establishing advocates both internally and externally is crucial. Internally, seek out mentors and allies who can provide guidance, support, and advocate for your growth within the organisation. I’ve had mentors throughout my life and I strongly believe in observing and learning from the people I admire. For example, there have been several distinct leaders within Palo Alto Networks that I continue to be inspired by – president for Asia Pacific and Japan, Simon Green, senior VP for product, Anand Oswal, and Chief Information Officer Meerah Rajavel.

3. Take calculated risks: Women should be encouraged to take calculated risks and there should be emphasis on the importance of strategic risk-taking in pursuing career growth. A risk that I took in my career, which I believe forged the path that I am on now, is the decision to make the lateral move from product management to presales. Encouraged by another mentor at Palo Alto Networks, VP of technical sales for Asia Pacific and Japan, Orcun Tezel. It was a seismic shift at the time – one that took me out of my comfort zone and into uncharted territory. And fast forward to today, I lead an incredible team of go-to-market leaders – high-performers who inspire me every day and I can confidently say that taking that leap laid the foundation for the leader I’ve become.

The natural affinity that I had towards sales, combined with the years of technical experience, proved to me what I already suspected – that when you enjoy what you do, you’ll do it well, and I truly believe that applies to everyone.

Swapna Bapat is VP & Managing Director for India and Saarc at Palo Alto Networks