You CAN sit with us...

There are no Regina George characters around here. Come over, take a seat at our table. There is room for all.

Hello everyone,

Georgie here. Welcome to our third instalment of the Women of ITSM newsletter. I hope this message finds you well and thriving in your respective corners of the ITSM universe.

Over the last few weeks we delved into our recent experiences at the SITs conference and why we felt compelled to establish this network. Today, I want to elaborate on our mission to foster a supportive environment for women and allies in ITSM.

One of the cornerstones of our network is the belief in the power of shared experiences. We recognise that navigating the ITSM landscape as a woman can present unique challenges, from breaking into male-dominated spaces to overcoming imposter syndrome. By sharing our stories, both triumphs and tribulations, we aim to create a community where every voice is heard and every journey is valued.

Authenticity is another theme close to our hearts. In an industry that often values conformity over individuality, it can be daunting to show up as our true selves. Yet, we believe that embracing our authenticity not only empowers us as individuals but also enriches the collective tapestry of ITSM. Through candid discussions and vulnerability, we aspire to create a space where authenticity is celebrated and encouraged.

Imposter syndrome is something many of us grapple with, myself included. It's that nagging voice in the back of our minds that whispers, "Its just a matter of time before you are found out, you don’t really know what you are doing." But let me tell you something: you do belong here. Each and every one of us brings a unique perspective and skill set to the table, and our differences are our greatest strengths. Together, we can challenge the notion of who belongs in ITSM and redefine what it means to be successful in this field. I recognise this more each day but most prevalently when founding this amazing network with Lucy and Sophie, as much as we are like minded and share many common values, each of us brings a different skillset to the table and we are able to challenge each other in a positive way. That is what makes this network awesome – there is no competition, no top dog. We recognise there is plenty of pie to go around and everyone is invited to take a seat at our table.

So, what does an ideal future for Women in ITSM look like? It's a future where women are not only represented but also celebrated at every level of the industry. It's a future where diversity is not just a buzzword but a lived reality, where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. It's a future where mentorship and allyship are ingrained in the fabric of ITSM culture, where we lift each other up and champion one another's success.

As we continue on this journey together, I invite you to share your experiences, your insights, and your aspirations for the future. Together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for Women in ITSM.

Namaste

Georgie