In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting Liaison employees who identify as women whose contributions have been integral to our success.
Sara Kirby, Senior Client Experience Manager at Time2Track, has worked in the education field for 15 years. Her experience includes working as a student affairs and career services professional, co-owning a career coaching business and serving as a career and education consultant.
Sara recently shared her thoughts on building relationships, solving problems and “facing standards most men don’t.”
What drew you to the technology industry in the first place?
Sarah Kirby (SK): I spent 15 years working in higher education and regardless of the role I was in, I always enjoyed finding ways technology could solve problems. As a result, I often took on the responsibility of implementing new software or taking the lead on finding ways it could best assist the office. In 2015, my office became a Time2Track client and I always appreciated their approach as a consultative partner rather than a sales operation. When I left higher education in 2016, I sought an opportunity to work for Time2Track so I could connect my skills with a company I could see was interested in the same things I was. To say I’ve never looked back is an understatement. It was the best decision I have ever made.
What’s one of the greatest challenges you’ve faced as a person who identifies as a woman in the workplace?
SK: There is no question the biggest challenge for me has been balancing being a professional and a mother. I have three kids (now 10, 8 and 8) and balancing career goals and raising a family has been challenging, confusing and sometimes overwhelming. Although I know many men struggle with this balance too, my observation has been that many women carry heavier physical and mental loads while facing standards most men don’t. There’s a quote that says, “We expect women to work like they don’t have children and raise children as if they don’t work.” To me, this summarizes the daily struggle that many women like me have faced.
I wouldn’t say I’ve figured this out yet, however, a few things that have helped me overcome this are finding a flexible work environment, connecting with other successful working mothers and being honest with myself about what my priorities were at various stages of my career. I also don’t apologize for times when family gets in the way of work — just like I don’t apologize when work gets in the way of family.
What is the most impactful professional lesson you’ve learned since you began your career?
SK: Relationship building is one of the most important things you can do. This not only helps you build trusted relationships internally to your organization but it also helps you develop partners, mentors, colleagues and contacts that can help you build new skills, and find growth and opportunities for yourself. I am always reaching out to new contacts, building new relationships in my organization and finding ways to learn from others. This has accounted for so much of my own growth and knowledge.
Where do you see yourself professionally in 10 years?
SK: I’m not sure, really, but I know it will involve working hard to help pay for three college tuitions!
When you’re faced with a tough professional challenge, who/what/where do you look for guidance?
SK: This really depends on what the challenge is. I usually take some time to make sure I’ve identified what the challenge is and what type of support or guidance I’m looking for. I have many current and former colleagues I lean on and also a supportive husband and extended family when I need support or perspective. If my challenge requires increased knowledge, I go find it. If it lies in uncertainty, I find answers. As long as I’m clear about what the challenge is, I’m never afraid to reach out to my network or resources for help.
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
SK: This one is tough! I think I would tell her to take time to really understand who you are so you are can be true and honest with yourself. I would definitely tell her it’s okay not to know what you want to major in, or what career options exist and that several of her future jobs don’t even exist yet.
Who are your favorite women in history, women who inspire/empower you?
SK: The women who inspire me are those closest to me. My mother, specifically, because she managed to balance work and family in the most beautiful way during a time that was much harsher on working women. My sister also inspires me, as she gave up a lot to achieve her own dream of being a vet and now balances being a working mama of three with grace.
What are you most proud of?
SK: I most proud of where I am today. Five years ago, I took a huge leap and left a job and career I loved without knowing exactly where I would land. I’m proud of the work I’ve done, the opportunities I created for myself and the amazing company I work for now!