The salesforce.com Woman of the Month campaign turns the spotlight on the amazing women who help make this company the World’s Most Innovative Company and one of the best places to work. Honorees are nominated by fellow employees and selected by a dedicated committee that works to ensure a variety of roles and regions are honored.

Your greatest assets in your career are your own unique strengths, passions, and instincts. Trusting these and following the right path for you will help you on your way to your #dreamjob. Salesforce.com’s April Woman of the Month learned to embrace the importance of authenticity and it has propelled her to a happy balance of work and life.

Meet Joanne Pantuso, Senior Director of ISV and Channel Operations at salesforce.com. Not only does Pantuso handle the rigorous demands of her nonstop career (she's been with the company over seven years), but she also makes time to travel with her husband and never misses a weightlifting workout (strong body, strong mind).

How does she do it all? By staying true to herself, making the most of what she’s got in the workplace, and seeking out the fun in everything she does. And luckily, she has some tips for the rest of us. Check them out.

Was there one moment in your career that was pivotal to getting where you are today?

I started off in sales–it seemed like a very natural fit for me. But ultimately sales never felt fun to me; I did it mostly for the money. When I was introduced to operations while working on the ISV side of our business with our partners, I was immediately drawn to it and without hesitation, I made the move. Learning to trust my instincts has proven invaluable in the progression of my career, and provided me the opportunity to do something I truly enjoy.

What do you wish you had known at the beginning of your career that you know now?

I wish I had known to be authentic at work and to capitalize on my unique talents and gifts; to stop trying to be something I’m not. I’m comfortable with the fact that I'll often not be the smartest person in the room, but I've come to understand the importance of compensating factors like integrity, likability, and discipline which can be game-changers. 

What is your best career advice?

Invest time in building genuine relationships with those who can help you. People that like you want you to succeed and they’ll do just about anything to help you get there. 

Want to hear more from Pantuso? Connect with her on LinkedIn. 

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