Alliance of Channel Women is highlighting women who are Living the ACW Pledge: Women Supporting Women. We’re seeking nominations from the channel community for women – from the mailroom to the boardroom – who embody the oath in their words and actions.
Kimberly Staro, National Channel Manager at AVANT, was nominated by Karli Togami, Channel Manager at AVANT, and Alexis Keller, The Blonde Don at Root23 Agency.
In what way(s) is your nominee an example of Living the ACW Advocacy Pledge of women supporting women?
Karli: Kim has, from the very start of my career, provided me with guidance, advice and support to navigate any career challenges. She has also provided me with endless training opportunities to better myself, grow and develop as a woman in tech.
Alexis: The defining factors between success and failure in every facet of life are authenticity and follow-through. If I had to pick two character traits to describe Kim Staro without hesitation, this is precisely where I’d start.
See, you’ll never forget “that person” who went the extra mile for you just because they believed in you- and at a time when maybe, you didn’t believe in yourself. That person who was real with you, always kept their word and never let you down. And if you’re extra lucky, that person who gave you a chance to shine- the pivotal moment that propelled you to the next level in your career.
As for me, I am extra lucky because my person is Kim.
What is a specific example of what she did for you and when it happened?
Karli: There are genuinely too many examples to provide, but a few instances that stand out after working together for over three years are all surrounded by support.
Upon becoming a new Inside Channel Manager, Kim took the time to get to know me, ask and understand my goals, career path and what I hoped to accomplish. Kim then took steps regularly to help me get there. Mentoring, training, shadowing – you name it. She always made sure her team was taken care of and protected.
Alexis: When I was just starting a new career in a new industry and with new people, I put myself out there every chance I could, and that’s when I first met Kim. Over time, we built a great rapport. I learned so much from her [still do] and gained meaningful insight through the lens of another woman working in this space.
Then one day, I received an email from Kim asking if I would like to speak during her session at AVANT’s Special Forces Summit. I was ecstatic! A chance to join her and get 5-10 minutes of speaking time- hell yeah! However, my assumption was wrong.
Kim knew about my organization and the work we do for partners. Still, she went the extra mile and dedicated time with me to go beyond the elevator pitch. This allowed us to go deeper and have more meaningful discussions to uncover the depth and value of a working partnership.
It turns out that Kim advocated on my behalf to lead my very own session- the results of which I consider a significant turning point in my career.
What impact did her action have on you and/or your career?
Karli: I genuinely believe Kim is a large part of my upward growth at AVANT. Her confidence in me and constant guidance/support helped me achieve my career goals very quickly.
Alexis: Because of Kim, I gained exposure early in my career that changed the trajectory- and boosted my confidence to keep fighting, always stay true to myself, and seize every opportunity that comes my way.
Having “that person” in your life is a rare, special blessing- and one I hold near and dear to my heart. But the trust is- only some are as lucky.
So, let’s do something to change that! Get in touch with me (for real), or call on another woman you know. I challenge you.
Kim showed me the true meaning of strength in numbers…
Cheers to “That Person” everywhere! XO
Want to Nominate a Woman Who is Living the ACW Pledge?
Do you know a woman who has played a supportive role in your technology career, please tell us who she is and how she had your back!
ACW will accept nominations throughout the year and will recognize:
- Every nominee in the monthly ACW Member Newsletter
- Name a Big Impact Award Winner every quarter
For more information, visit ACW Advocacy Pledge.