The Art of Networking: First Event of EMEA Intel Female Executives
Exchanging experiences and useful tips within the workforce is one efficient way to advance and encourage corporate and personal development. The globally operating Intel Corporation tried to strengthen domestic ties by convening the members of their EMEA Intel Senior Female Network for a networking and leadership event in Paris last month. The network, established in late 2012, was set up to enable female leaders to make personal progress and increase collaboration and networking in the EMEA region.
The 33 women of the network are all successful in their own careers and comprise a mix of directors, factory and business leaders, among them currently four female vice presidents in the EMEA region. After the members had some virtual meetings they decided to come together in Paris and increase their interaction with the event titled “Unleashing the power of our leadership presence and network in EMEA”. According to the participants this unique meeting looked and felt different to standard conferences, it was not only an event to connect and network, it also focused on building key capabilities and business opportunities using the wider skill set people have beyond their jobs.
The first day started with personal stories as ice breakers. The opening session was chaperoned by a general manager and included a panel with corporate vice presidents from the EMEA region. External speakers delivered speeches about relevant aspects of leadership, mentorship and the future of Intel business. The second day contained concrete development work and discussions about the vision of the network and its mission as a corporate group. Future tasks and a general outlook need to be determined: Should the participants make it more inclusive and how can the numerous female Intel employees in the EMEA region profit by the network?
Those questions are not ultimately answered yet and will definitely be part of future exchanges. For the Paris event the 25 participants draw positive conclusions. Each member described personal key learnings and actions to share with their managers and teams. They strengthened their leadership capabilities by exploring their presence, vision and influence. The event has energised and encouraged their commitment to leadership and the personal advancement of women at Intel.
