“See It & Be It”: Krisha Newham of Intouch Solutions

“See It & Be It” is part of the 4A’s women and diversity leadership series. As part of this initiative, we invite members to tell us their stories. Here, Krisha Newham, VP, client services at Intouch Solutions, shares her experiences and views.

What are your words of advice to young talent?        

My best advice on how to make your way in this world is to listen, pay attention, and take something off of your boss’ plate. This is the best way to make yourself indispensable, but also get an understanding of the level above you. Saying “yes” to these challenges — no matter how small — allows you to build credibility and get experience.

Have you personally faced a moment of challenging or overcoming discrimination? 

I’d say it’s more micromoments: the male supervisor or coworker who “mansplains,” comments about my all-women account team (“Oh my goodness. Probably a lot of drama, huh?”), and having to constantly walk the line of being firm but not too firm, nice but not too nice. A perception of being a b* if I demand what is only fair and right.

Who was your first mentor and what did that mean for your career?

She wasn’t so much my mentor, but she was definitely someone that I looked up to professionally. When I was a teacher (yes, really), my principal, Charlotte Sands, showed me what it meant to be a professional person. She taught me about planning, how to communicate very directly but compassionately, and how to loop in your supervisor and be solution-minded. I was 24, so it set the tone for my entire career. When you’re a baby working person, you don’t know what you don’t know. She just set such clear expectations, I knew what I needed to do. I remember that when I’m coaching and mentoring others — we all are just figuring it out at every new stage.

What other advice do you give young people at your agency?

Don’t be afraid. Being afraid of mistakes, opportunities, raising your hand, elevating an issue, being an advocate for yourself are common things I see that keep young talent from performing at their best. Being vulnerable is the single biggest relationship builder, but one that we all struggle with as professional people. And be patient. Sometimes you just need experience. And that takes a little time.