Celebrating Women Today and Everyday: A Conversation With the Women of R2Net Inc. - JamesAllen.com Part 1

Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get started at James Allen? What was your first role/what has your career trajectory been like?

“I have been with James Allen since 2014 and started out in sales. My experience at a jewelry store before joining the James Allen team allowed me to quickly progress through training others and supervisory roles, eventually reaching the Sales Manager position in customer service”. Lorraine Brantner, Sales Manager

“I am the Digital Production Manager at James Allen and started as the Photography Manager. Since I began here, I've expanded the photography department to not only include Segoma 360 diamond imaging, but also a new jewelry product photography process that contributed to a large redesign of the website's gallery pages and PDP. We also create assets for the marketing team to use across all digital platforms. Lastly, I am involved in producing on-model photoshoots”. Emmanuelle Glazier, Digital Production Manager

“I started with James Allen in 2014 after working in a jewelry store for about 9 years. I actually came to apply because of Lorraine, our Sales Manager, whom I worked with previously! I was hired as a Diamond and Jewelry Consultant and moved into the Custom Design team shortly after my initial training. I began to branch out more, learning about Gemological Inspections and some of our Order Review procedures. I would assist with new hire training when our training manager would be out, transitioning into the Training and Development Manager role 4 years ago.” Sarah Merico, Training and Development Manager, Customer Service

LEADERSHIP & INSPIRATION

Who inspired you to be a leader, and what attributes did you admire most when paving your leadership path?

“I have always been so inspired by my father. Both he and my mother moved to the United States from Guatemala to build a life for themselves and to give my brother and me the opportunities that weren't readily available to them when they were younger. He is the hardest-working person I know, and he's always been humble and kind to everyone around him. My dad is so giving and caring to anyone that crosses his path. He leads with empathy and heart, which I believe more leaders should aspire to do. It's always been my aim to follow in his footsteps and lead that way.” Adriana Sutlief, Social Media & PR Manager

“My inspiration is my Dad. He always says if you feel this is where your heart is, then this is home! He always showed me that the more you learn and help others, the further you’ll go.” Marisela Hernandez, Customer Service Representative

Let’s talk about work-life balance. How do you carve out space for self-care and balance your career, personal/family life, and passions? What’s your formula?

“Balancing work-family is difficult at times. Being a mom of two small children, I really try to enjoy every minute I have with them. For now, taking care of them is my "self-care". Jennifer Roger, Fulfillment Associate

I personally have not mastered the recipe for the optimal work-life balance, but I am slowly learning to pay closer attention to my physical and mental health and adjust my priorities accordingly. It's extremely important to be in touch with yourself so that you don't lose your sense of self.” Vicky Xu, Director of Operations

What is one of your most proud accomplishments in your professional career?

“Being selected and trusted to represent James Allen for several events over the years has been exciting and humbling. I view it as a true honor that our team has asked me to give presentations, IG stories, magazine interviews, and even take part in the Love Stories TV show. I absolutely love telling others about everything that glitters and making the learning and purchasing process fun!” Lorraine Brantner, Sales Manager

“My greatest accomplishment, in my opinion, is the lovely team I built, where everyone respects my decisions and also respects and helps each other.” Violetta Veta Shvab, QA Team Leader

CHALLENGES

What are some challenges facing women in leadership roles and how can they work to overcome them?

“There is also the sense that when a woman is being firm and laying down the rules, they are called not-so-nice words simply for doing their job as a leader. There is a difference between being warm and accommodating vs. a pushover, and finding that balance of softness and confidence has improved from my 20s to my 30s.” Lorraine Brantner, Sales Manager

Have you ever experienced imposter syndrome in your career, and how did you manage the self-doubt?

“Yes! Being a Black woman, I've faced imposter syndrome and self-doubt many times in my career, especially in spaces where there aren't many that look like me. I am honest with myself and acknowledge that I need to take a “time out” Taking a moment to breathe and reflect on the fact that I wouldn't be where I'm at if someone didn't see something in me. I tell myself that I belong and have talents that are worth sharing. Tam Ogoola, Social Media Strategist

“Through various experiences and challenges, I have learned to trust my own abilities and to have confidence in myself. Whenever I encounter self-doubt, I remind myself of my accomplishments and skills, and I focus on continuously learning and growing. I also find it helpful to seek feedback and advice from trusted colleagues or mentors, as their perspectives can provide valuable insight and support.” Daniela Hornivius, HR Director

WHAT’S NEXT?

How should women support women within their organizations?

“Women can support other women by celebrating each other's successes. Be excited and interested in others’ success and praise one another. We need to support women openly and make sure they are recognized for their dedication and hard work.” Tammy Steed, Maryland Operations Director, Customer Service

What advice do you have for women looking to grow their own business or within their company?

“Confidence! Any time I have received a promotion, I had full confidence in what I was doing and my abilities at that time. I am also never afraid to ask to learn more. I can't grow if I'm not learning.” Sarah Merico, Training and Development Manager, Customer Service

“Never depend on others for your growth, development, education, or success. If you want to achieve something, take full ownership - find ways to learn what you need to, go above and beyond what is expected of you, stay humble, and work hard daily.” Emmanuelle Glazier, Digital Production Manager

“Know what you want to achieve and go for it. To grow your own business or advance within our company, it's important to establish a clear vision of your goals and aspirations. it's important to develop a growth mindset, which involves embracing challenges, seeking out feedback, and persisting in the face of obstacles.” Daniela Hornivius, HR Director

What advice would you give to the next generation of female identifying leaders, and what would you tell your 25-year-old self?

“Don't be too hard on yourself, and stop focusing on what others around you are doing. Follow your heart and trust your gut. I've always been a perfectionist to my core, and it wasn't until I finally allowed myself to let limiting beliefs or certain mindsets go that I was finally able to bloom.” Adriana Sutlief, Social Media & PR Manager

“You should have started that 401K at 22 :)" Lorraine Brantner, Sales Manager

“Have confidence in themselves and their abilities and not be afraid to ask for what they want or need. They should also surround themselves with supportive colleagues and mentors and continuously seek opportunities for growth and learning.” Daniela Hornivius, HR Director

“Your reaction to a situation literally has the power to change the situation itself.” Tammy Steed, Maryland Operations Director, Customer Service