Take a risk and throw your hat in the ring for a new career opportunity even though you may only feel 50 percent qualified. Women want to feel they can perform 100 percent of a new job before campaigning for themselves, whereas men don’t hesitate to jump into the running even if they can only do part of it. With a new position, you’ll learn as you go. The skills that have brought you this far will take you to the next level.

How do you manage stress?
I make time for exercise and meditation. I also focus on what I’m grateful for: the challenges and opportunities to evolve as a leader and as a person, and the good fortune of family and friends who support me. I make my life big instead of focusing on one problem. When you make your life feel bigger during stressful moments, you maintain perspective and avoid becoming overwhelmed.

What are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about coaching and mentoring other women. Having navigated the corporate world for many years, I can be a witness to other women and their struggles, and the cheerleader who roots them on.

What are the biggest challenges facing the industry?
One of the biggest challenges is having your event get noticed and make a lasting impression. Planners are using the experiential technique with their meetings, but it’s tough to create a first-time experience and stay fresh year after year. This approach is upping the game for planners and everyone is competing with one another, even themselves.

What strategies do you recommend for addressing those challenges?
For an event to get noticed, I suggest smaller events, planned more frequently. A more intimate gathering allows attendees to receive the main content—information, education and networking—within a more personalized experience. So instead of featuring a celebrity performer in a huge amphitheater, spotlight the same performer in a smaller, acoustic setting. Attendees receive the content they need and an unforgettable experience.

BIO
Cat Caruso is general manager at pc/nametag, Inc., a subsidiary of Avery North America located in Verona, Wis.