by Jessica Duvall, Senior Channel Marketing Manager, RingCentral
In our dynamic channel, strong relationships aren’t just a byproduct; they’re the bedrock of success both personally and professionally.
Building meaningful connections isn’t just about collecting contact information or accepting a LinkedIn request; it’s about genuine engagement and mutual support. I prioritize actively listening, understanding challenges and seeking ways to collaborate even if it’s just offering a different perspective. This often means carving out time for one-on-one virtual coffees, attending industry events not just for the content but for the conversations and actively participating in groups like the Alliance of Channel Women (ACW). It’s about being present and truly investing in the people around you.
Why does this strengthen the channel? Stronger relationships foster trust, facilitate smoother collaboration and ultimately drive innovation. For instance, companies that encourage a collaborative environment are five times more likely to be high-performing and teams that work well together are five times more likely to make better decisions, according to recent teamwork statistics. Improving workplace collaboration and teamwork can also increase business sales by 27 percent. When we know and trust each other, we’re more likely to share insights, refer business and overcome obstacles together.
For women in the channel, this is even more critical. A robust network provides a vital support system offering mentorship, sponsorship and a safe space to share experiences. It empowers us to navigate challenges and celebrate successes, collectively raising the bar for women in technology leadership. Recent data continues to emphasize the power of mentorship: 77 percent of women in tech with mentors are more likely to stay in the industry after three years than those without mentors. Moreover, a DDI (Development Dimensions International) study in 2024 revealed that 35 percent of leaders in companies with strong DEI programs are women compared to 25 percent in companies with weak or no DEI programs, underscoring the link between supportive environments and diverse leadership.
The Alliance of Channel Women is a testament to what can be achieved when women and their allies intentionally come together. The relationships forged within not only empower individual careers but also amplify our collective voice, driving meaningful change across the industry. A 2023 study found that 94 percent of women at or above management level felt confident in the power of their network to “support or advance” their careers and 80 percent of those women use networking to secure paid board seats and C-suite positions, as well as negotiate higher pay.
A prime example of this powerful synergy is the growth of ACW’s Philanthropy Committee. When I first became involved with ACW, it was through connections made at events and through direct outreach from colleagues. These initial conversations quickly blossomed into collaborative efforts, leading to my direct involvement in establishing the Philanthropy Committee and acting as Co-Chair. The trust and camaraderie we’ve built on this committee has allowed us to brainstorm ideas freely, divide tasks efficiently and ultimately expand our reach and impact significantly. It’s a direct result of members investing in each other, sharing their passion and leveraging their networks within the channel to champion a cause we all believe in.
Let’s continue to nurture these invaluable bonds whether through a networking event, a collaborative project or a casual conversation. Remember, an estimated 85 percent of positions are filled through personal or professional connections, highlighting the tangible impact of these connections on career opportunities and growth in the current job market.
References available upon request.
About the Author
Jessica Duvall is a channel marketing enthusiast and Senior Channel Marketing Manager at RingCentral. Jessica currently co-chairs the Alliance of Channel Women Philanthropy Committee and is passionate about making a difference in every life she touches.
A proud graduate of Clemson University, Jessica enjoys spending time with her family and dogs in her free time.
