We were lucky to catch up with Demetha Sanders recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Demetha, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
As a black woman executive, I have oftentimes been the only one in the room. It takes confidence and respectful assertiveness to ensure that you are heard but it also requires you to know your craft. Ask questions to clarify and be open to countering points of view. Just remember that you are there for a reason. Your opinion is valuable and people want to hear from you. Own your space!
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’ve spent years climbing the corporate ladder to ascend to the upper levels of a couple of large multinational organizations. When an unplanned corporate downsizing impacted my role in 2023, I took advantage of the opportunity to reground and pursue something I have been passionate about for a very long time: travel. I’m incredibly curious about cultures and have become an avid traveler over the years to nourish that curiosity. With more than 50 countries on my travel log, I am constantly answering questions from friends (and others) on what it’s like to visit some of these places. People are generally nervous about stepping out of the comfort zone and I help them gain the confidence they need to get out there and explore. It’s the best way to change your perspective and grow.
I decided to put those stories in a blog to share them with the world. Writing allows me to relieve some incredible experiences all over again. It has also highlighted the fact that there are so many more places to explore and so much more to learn about the people with which we share this planet. I have a lot more ground to cover and a lot more people to meet.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1) Natural Curiosity – Ask questions and never stop learning – everyday is a school day) 2) Don’t simply accept defeat – When something doesn’t go as planned, learn the lesson.
3) Don’t ever let someone tell you want you cannot do – In the great words of Nelson Mandela….It always seems impossible until it’s done.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
“First Break All The Rules” has been an important leadership book that I’ve referenced for more than 15 years. It shares some important nuggets for self evaluation and for leadership. Most importantly it emphasizes that each person has a unique set of talents which makes them the right fit for a certain role. Successful leaders encourage and helps employees to develop these innate talents and to become even better. As a leader, you should ensure your team has the answers to the 12 questions outlined in the book at all times. Your success as a leader is explicitly tied to the effectiveness of the teams you lead.
Contact Info:
- Website: TwoBlackTravelers.com
- Instagram: TwoBlackTravelers
- Youtube: TwoBlackTravelers411
- Other: Pinterest: TwoBlackTravelers
