EQUALITY IMPACT AWARD

EQUALITY IMPACT AWARD WINNER: Veronica Gonzalez

Historically and notoriously unequal, the tech industry has already come a long way in terms of promoting diversity and inclusion. Much of this success has been due to the amazing women and female-identifying people that break glass ceilings everyday.

In honor of these women and in celebration of Women’s Equality Day on August 26, BounceX launched The Equality Impact Awards, awarded to an honorary group of women in the tech, publishing and retail industries, each of whom has broken barriers, changed their companies for the better and fought for equality and gender parity.

Today, we honor one of our 2018 winners, Veronica Gonzalez, Chief of Staff & VP, Head of Business & Legal Affairs at Outbrain. Veronica answered 5 questions about the state of equality in the industry. Take a look!

WHAT STRATEGIES DO YOU USE TO FIGHT FOR EQUALITY IN YOUR FIELD?

Given the year women’s movements are having in the US, I think the best way to fight inequality is to shine a light on it whenever you see it. For me, I think a positive way to counter inequality is to seek out opportunities to champion tremendous and deserving women!

WHAT WAS YOUR DREAM JOB WHEN YOU WERE IN COLLEGE, AND HOW HAS THAT EVOLVED?

From the first day of undergrad, I knew I wanted to go to law school. At the time, I thought it’d be the groundwork for a career in politics (because people love politicians more than lawyers, right?). Quickly realized politics was not for me — but the law school plan stuck!

WHAT IS THE WORST DECISION YOU’VE EVER MADE? WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM IT?

Fortunately, I can’t pinpoint one particularly horrible decision — but I’ve made a lot of bad decisions along the way! One poor decision that I continue to make: ignoring my instincts. I haven’t overcome this entirely but I’m learning that going for it (no matter how hard it seems in the moment), is better than the “I should have” feeling haunting your thoughts.

WHAT RITUALS OR HABITS DO YOU HAVE FOR WHEN YOU WANT TO HAVE A KICK A$$ DAY?

A kick a$$ day generally includes a freshly handwritten “to-do list” with tick boxes for checking off throughout the day. If I’m focused on the priorities — and wearing a great pair of heels — odds are it’s a good day.

WHAT DOES FEMALE EMPOWERMENT MEAN TO YOU?

Being empowered means feeling like you’re in the driver’s seat when it comes to your decision making. Regardless of gender, whatever crossroads you’re facing — the goal is for you to have options that are reflective of your personal values and goals.