Cognizant Executive Sreedevi Palit Discusses Imposter Syndrome and Leadership Challenges on International Women's Day

International Women's Day Report: Cognizant's Commitment to Inclusive Workplace

Key Figures:

• Sreedevi Palit, Director of Human Resources and Head of Diversity and Inclusion India at Cognizant
• 30, number of global cohorts of women leaders in Cognizant's Propel program
• 2023, year Cognizant launched the SHAKTI initiative, a women-centric policy framework

Company Overview:

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Cognizant, a leading IT major, is committed to creating an inclusive workplace for women in a traditionally male-dominated sector. To achieve this goal, the company has implemented various initiatives, including the Propel program for senior-level women leaders and the RISE program for mid-career women.

Programs and Initiatives:

• Propel, a program launched in 2018, aims to amplify the contributions of women leaders by building their personal brand, network, and ability to pay forward. By 2026, the program had supported 30 global cohorts of women leaders.
• RISE, a program for mid-career women, helps them define their work-life balance, avoid guilt and imposter syndrome, and prioritize their career goals.
• SHAKTI, a women-centric policy framework launched in 2023, brings together Cognizant's various policies and initiatives to support women in the workplace, including Be Gritty for freshers, MATRI for pre- and post-maternity transition and integration, and ecosystem support.

Key Takeaways:

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• Owning one's career journey is essential for women in leadership roles, particularly when rejoining the workforce after a maternity leave or health break.
• Prioritizing and defining goals are crucial for achieving a work-life balance without feeling guilty.
• Continuing to learn and networking are essential for staying competitive in a rapidly changing field.
• Embracing differences and being inclusive are critical for creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

Conclusion:

Cognizant's commitment to creating an inclusive workplace for women is evident in its various initiatives and programs. By supporting women in their career journeys, the company is helping to break down barriers and promote equal opportunities for all. As the company continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to diversity and inclusion will remain a key driver of its success.