Blueprints for Success: Episode 38 with Dora Boussias
Hosted by Deirdre Caren on Agora Insights' Blueprints for Success: Breaking Barriers in Leadership, the Importance of Tailoring Messages to Resonate with Different Audiences, and the Critical Role Language plays in Data and AI.
Introduction
I recently?had the pleasure of speaking with Dora Boussias, a seasoned leader in data analytics and enterprise architecture. With over 30 years of experience, Dora has transitioned from corporate roles to establishing her own company, Dora B. Global, where she focuses on empowering women and minorities in technology. Our discussion centered around breaking barriers in leadership, the importance of tailoring messages to resonate with different audiences, and the critical role language plays in data and AI.
Let's get started...
Background
Dora Boussias has navigated a diverse career across sectors such as financial services, healthcare, and technology. Starting as a COBOL mainframe programmer, she quickly recognized the vital role data plays in business decision-making. Her experience includes significant contributions at companies like General Electric (GE) and Prudential, where she led initiatives that transformed data strategies and improved operational efficiencies.
Dora’s passion for impact and mentorship is evident in her current focus with Dora B. Global, where she aims to support mid-career professionals, particularly women and immigrants, in overcoming career hurdles. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, stating,
"I want to take everything that I know about data and leadership and career... (all) I wish I knew 30 years ago, 20 years ago, even ten years ago, (to) what I know today."
1.?Breaking Barriers in Leadership
Dora emphasizes the importance of making an impact in leadership roles, particularly for women and minorities. She points out that despite advancements in diversity and inclusion, challenges remain, with only about 28% of leadership positions held by women. Dora believes that to break these barriers, leaders must focus not just on technical skills but also on effective communication and advocacy.
She states, "We forget about communication. We forget about business. We forget about how to advocate for ourselves." This highlights the necessity for leaders to articulate their vision and secure buy-in for their initiatives. Dora’s approach involves working with startups to help them shape their direction by combining technical expertise with strategic communication, ensuring that their business value is clearly conveyed.
"There's still challenges... about 28% female leaders. To think that gender is holding someone from getting into STEM fields to me is just unfathomable." - Dora Boussias
2.?The Importance of Tailoring Messages to Resonate with Different Audiences
Our discussion covers the significance of understanding the audience when communicating complex ideas, particularly in the tech industry. She notes that many leaders may have the technical knowledge but struggle to convey their message effectively. By tailoring communications to resonate with different stakeholders, leaders can foster better collaboration and drive successful outcomes.
Dora highlights her experience in transforming data strategies, stating, "People are not going to engage or fund the project... you're asking for unless they realize how it's helping them." This understanding is crucial for effective communication. She emphasizes that the same proposition can be presented differently depending on the audience, whether it's the CFO or the CRO. This adaptability is key to ensuring that the message is received and understood.
"What I found is especially in tech, many leaders, they might know what they need to do, but they don't know how to communicate and get the buy-in so they can get the funding that they need and then implement." - Dora Boussias
3. The Critical Role Language Plays in Data and AI
In our discussion, Dora emphasizes that the conversation around AI should not start with the technology itself but rather with the business problems it aims to solve. She warns against the common pitfall of focusing on the latest trends without understanding the underlying business needs.
Dora asserts, "Data strategy is really not about the data; it's about the business." This perspective is crucial as organizations navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and data analytics. She advocates for a structured approach to implementing AI, ensuring that it aligns with business objectives and delivers tangible value.
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Dora highlights the need for AI governance, stating, "I always look at governance as enablement." By viewing governance as a means to facilitate responsible and effective use of technology, organizations can harness the power of AI while mitigating risks. She stresses the importance of validating information and ensuring that communication is clear and relevant to prevent misunderstandings.
Ten Learning Points
Close
My conversation with Dora Boussias was a powerful reminder of the importance of breaking barriers in leadership and the need for effective communication in the tech industry. Her commitment to empowering women and minorities is inspiring, and her insights on data and AI offer valuable guidance for professionals navigating this complex landscape.
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ABOUT DORA?
Dora Boussias is a leader in data analytics and enterprise architecture, with extensive experience across various sectors. She is passionate about empowering women and minorities in technology and is the founder of Dora B. Global. Connect with her on LinkedIn and explore her insights and initiatives.
LinkedIn Profile:?Dora Boussias - DoraB Global Recent Posts on LinkedIn: