The Thrill of Social Media: Guneet Kaur Talks Working at Snapchat, Being a Woman in Technology, and Shares Her Essential Advice to Young Women
There are over four billion snapchats sent per day. As one of the world’s largest social media companies, Snapchat plays a big part of our everyday lives. Today’s woman dreamer, Guneet Kaur is a Brand Strategy Specialist at Snap Inc. (Snapchat) and the Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Boss Women Collective. From roles at Snapchat to Google, Guneet brings a passion for uplifting communities and building genuine professional relationships. She writes, “I got my current role at Snap Inc. through rigorous networking, being active on Linkedin, and really approaching everything with a learner's mindset.” In this interview, Guneet shares Life @ Snapchat, her experiences as a women in technology, and her unique and actionable advice to young women. A True Trailblazer and Role Model for Women! Check out her empowering story!
1) Tell us your story. You work as a Brand Specialist at Snap Inc. How did you know you wanted to work in brand strategy and events, and how did you get your "dream role"?
Honestly, I can't totally say this is what I always wanted to do. I really believe that every experience helps you understand what makes you happy and what doesn't. My previous role at Google really sparked my passion for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and I knew that in any capacity I wanted to continue to make an impact in this space. Recruiting events happened to be the outlet that introduced me to the space and it's exciting that I am currently working in recruiting events again, in a more senior capacity. I got my current role at Snap Inc. through rigorous networking, being active on Linkedin, and really approaching everything with a learner's mindset. I took the time to listen and learn from the people around me on how they got to where they are, how to be a better advocate for myself, and how to practice allyship. I read books, I joined organizations, and I started incorporating the knowledge I was gaining into my work - both in and outside of my 9-5.
2) What is the most interesting project you have worked on? What is it like working in technology?
My favorite project to date has been Google's presence at AfroTech 2019. I helped build out a 2-day product showcase called 'The Kick Back hosted by Google'. The goal of this space was to be a space where attendees could recharge, relax, network, and learn about all the innovative tech at Google. We strategically created the space with intentionality and it showed. Many attendees said this felt like a space that was created just for them.
I think technology is a really interesting space to be in because tech drives our day-to-day. From staying connected to friends to helping small businesses be successful, the impact technology has is huge.
For DEI specifically, I'm excited knowing there is much room to impact historically underrepresented communities in tech but I also know that there is a lot of work to be done because DEI has been put on the back-burner for way too long. It's going to be a long process, but I believe in the strength and good-will of tech employees to prioritize this and to always approach their work with a 'DEI lens'.
3) What is your advice to every young woman looking for their dream job? What were the challenges you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them? Any advice for recent graduates/college seniors on recruiting during this time?
My advice is to network with the mindset of creating genuine relationships. You should network with people that you are inspired by and with people that have jobs you may be interested in. By doing so, you learn about what made these individuals successful and what advice they may have for you, and you create authentic relationships that are mutually beneficial in the long run.
I think a big challenge is making sure your connection stays genuine and the follow-up. When you are chatting with a new individual, take notes and really try to find a connection between the two of you (i.e. you both love dogs!). This will make you both remember each other because you connected on something unique. Then, set up a cadence for when you will follow-up with people you have talked to (i.e. every 3 months, just check-in, ask how they are doing and let them know what you have been up to)
4) You are also the Head of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity For Boss Women Collective. What efforts for diversity and inclusion would you like to see in the business world in 2020/the future?
With BWC, I hope to educate the community about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and connect marginalized communities to new opportunities. We see the huge equity gap in the business world today and we hope to empower Womxn to grow professionally and personally through our content and curated experiences.
Many companies may only be approaching DEI in a performative way, but the truly successful companies will be those that are transparent about learning from their mistakes, clearly outline their objectives, understand what success will look like, and are going to continuously hold themselves accountable. It's about being part of an active movement, not just a moment of DEI practice.
5) As we are Women Who Win #Dreamcatchers, what is your next big dream?
I dream to break down the systemic issues that hold marginalized communities back from utilizing their full potential and live in a world where everyone's background + identity is included and celebrated. (Hint: It all starts with you & me lifting each other up )
Bio: Guneet is deeply passionate about the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion space. Currently, she is a Brand Strategy Specialist at Snap Inc., where she curates unique experiences to connect with communities that are traditionally underrepresented in the tech industry. She also lives out her passion for supporting Womxn as the Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Boss Women Collective, an organization that empowers Womxn through personal growth and professional development. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, petting dogs, hanging out with people, and being out in nature.