ENTERPRISING WOMEN
ENTERPRISING WOMEN
Enterprising Women Panelists Share Leadership Advice
By Larry Feld
Each year , COMMERCE Magazine and CIANJ celebrate the dedication and achievements of women in leadership within New Jersey ’ s vibrant business community . August marks the fourth annual Enterprising Women In Commerce Awards Reception honoring women who inspire and encourage others in their respective industries . In addition to the awards ceremony , the event on August 14 will include a lively panel discussion featuring past honorees and will be moderated by Cindy Myer , President and CEO of Ridgewood Moving Services .
Panelists include Teri Capparelli , Executive Director , Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County ; Marcia Frieze , CEO of Case Medical , Inc .; Dr . Mildred Mihlon , President , Felician University ; Janet Ryan , Founder and Owner of SpectraSpray Global ; Deeba Siddiqui , Senior Vice President , Hackensack Meridian Health ; Tracy Straka , Executive Vice President at Creamer Environmental ; and Deborah Visconti , President and CEO of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center .
In anticipation of this event , we asked the panelists to share their perspectives and advice on leadership qualities .
COMMERCE : What is the most valuable advice you received that helped you to achieve your leadership position in business today , and why do you think that advice was valuable ?
Deeba Siddiqui : This is such a great question . As I look back at my career trajectory and recognize those moments that led to my leadership
Always ask for what you want / need . Don ’ t play the gender card . I am a leader who happens to be a woman , not because I am a woman
opportunities there is one theme that shines through . I had the pleasure of being mentored by Steve Adubato early on in my career and he asked me to consider this question : “ If not me , then who ?” This shift in thinking resulted in me removing myself as a barrier . Removing those moments where I may have questioned if I had enough experience , or if I had the right skill set - because it is in those moments of self-questioning that you hold back and then recognize that you missed an opportunity .
Tracy Straka : There is no magic formula for success . Preparation , dedication , and hard work will establish you as a reliable and competent leader . Some of the principles of effective leadership I try to follow include : Communicate clearly and ensure your message is heard and understood . Teach , delegate , and give credit because fostering a collaborative environment builds trust and morale by valuing the contributions of others . Lead by example . Hard work and competence always carry the day . Always ask for what you want / need . Don ’ t play the gender card . I am a leader who happens to be a woman , not because I am a woman .
Figure out your strengths and showcase your abilities . Look at multiple points of view . Considering diverse perspectives leads to better decision-making and fosters a more inclusive environment . Always say thank you . Admit when you are wrong , and try to make things
Continued
Deeba Siddiqui , Senior Vice President , Hackensack Meridian Health
Tracy Straka , Executive Vice President , Creamer Environmental
Dr . Mildred Mihlon , President , Felician University
18 COMMERCE www . commercemagazinenj . com