By Anelle Hamilton

CompTIA Africa launched its Women in IT Community breakfast at the Bright Water Commons recently. The event looked at the latest salary survey from ITWeb to see if the glass ceiling still existed and gave women in the IT industry a chance to network and share their success stories.

Nancy Hammervik, CompTIA HQ Senior Vice President, Industry Relations, sums up her philosophy and top tips for building a successful career in the acronym EVOLVE.

Evolve: Always exude positive energy and be enthusiastic. People around you must feel you make things happen. Always keep eye contact and smile. Also pay attention to your tone of voice.

Volunteer:  Don’t be afraid to volunteer. Always look tasks outside your job description. You will be noticed if you give 110%. Create these opportunities for yourself but don’t become a doormat. Perform every task with intent. Keep track of everything you do so when it is time for your performance review you can record what you did.

Ownership: Take responsibility of every task you perform. Become the ‘go to’ person in your organisation. Own your role and job. If someone in your team does not perform take ownership. If your plans works out you will get the recognition. However, even if things do not go according to plan make the effort for trying to bounce back. Always expect the unexpected.

Likeability: Make people feel comfortable and become interested in them. Form and build relationships. Your job has to give you joy- life is short!

Voice: Find your voice.  When you have to attend a brainstorming session do not be intimidated! Feel comfortable to share your opinion. It is much better to contribute and get noticed.

Education: Remember that you are a work in progress. Keep on top of your field. Attend industry events and seminars to sharpen your skills. Buy self help books and subscribe to trade magazine (like SalesGuru) to help you stay relevant.

About Nancy Hammervik: Nancy joined CompTIA in 2011 after a 20-plus year career with Everything Channel, a top provider of IT channel-focused events, media, research, consulting and sales and marketing services. Prior to her events role, Nancy was national director of classified advertising sales for CMP Media.