What happens when you fill a room with smart women experienced in engineering, UX design, and data science, and let them connect with company leaders?
In our experience hosting over 100 networking events in the past 2 years, the answer has been pretty great things: learning, shared stories and experiences, and sometimes, new jobs!
Back in February, we did just that, bringing together over 100 women to learn about the latest innovations at vacation rental company, Vrbo. Vrbo's Chief Product Officer, Tina Weyland, and VP of Engineering, Anita Dodia, were just two of the impressive women that shared their experiences with attendees.
While everyone went home with a better understanding of the technology being used in the vacation rental space, some attendees, like Julie Scott, left with a little bit more.
An experienced Software Development Manager, Julie attended our event with Vrbo on February 28th, and by July, she'd started a new job as Senior Software Engineering Manager at Vrbo!
We asked Julie a series of rapid-fire questions to learn more about her, the experience she's had with PowerToFly, and Vrbo's process and approach to Diversity & Inclusion. Read on for her responses.
1) How did you hear about PowerToFly?
I received an invitation via LinkedIn for an event at Vrbo back in February.
2) What's the best thing about Vrbo?
Working with extremely smart people who are communicative and passionate about their work.
3) Why do you think diversity and inclusion in the workplace is important?
We serve customers from all kinds of backgrounds, it does not make sense for a company to pick only a fraction of the population to provide the products and services our customers use.
4) Can you talk about how Vrbo supports a diverse and inclusive workplace?
There are many activities and company sponsored events for us to participate in that support diversity. It creates a safe and encouraging environment for people to be themselves without judgment.
5) Which benefits at Vrbo really appeal to you?
Learning is not an afterthought, it is expected. Vrbo provides many learning opportunities and encourages us to take advantage of trying something new and different.
6) What was the interview process at Vrbo like for you?
It was very welcoming and friendly. I was really taken away by how genuinely happy everyone was and how proud they were of the work they were doing. The interview lasted about 3 hours, but it felt much shorter because I was enjoying the conversations I had with the interviewers so much. It was an added bonus when I discovered we were passionate about the same things!
7) What's your favorite question to get asked during an interview?
I like to talk about my passion. As a manager, I spent a lot of time learning how to be a servant leader and how to work with teams. I love discussing topics like conflict resolution and how to inspire and motivate others. Many times, I learn a lot of tips and tricks by sharing and comparing notes with other managers.
8) What is the work environment like at Vrbo?
Very open and transparent. A lot of clear communication and honesty. People work hard and play hard.
9) And finally, what's something cool about Vrbo that most people don't know?
People bring in jigsaw puzzles and leave them in open spaces where anyone can contribute. It is very relaxing and sometimes you work alone, and sometimes you meet new friends.
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Interested in solving puzzles (literal and figurative) at Vrbo? Check out their open roles here!
And if you'd like to be invited to events like this one, sign up to create a PowerToFly profile.
- Network with top executives even if you aren't looking for a new role
- First look at flexible, work-from-home, in-office roles
- Join live chats led by expert women in your field and beyond
