Inspiring Women+ Leadership: Raquel

The month of March is Gender Equality Month and Women’s History Month, so, there’s no better time to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of the women in our lives. In this Q&A series, we're shining a light on some of the inspiring Women+ leadership figures working at TextNow. Be sure to catch the full series on our blog to read about the lessons they’ve learned throughout their journey to where they are today.

‍Raquel Alexander (She/Her) Vice President of Marketing

As VP Marketing, Raquel oversees TextNow’s Marketing organization and our cross functional Growth pod teams.  

What is the most powerful lesson you’ve learned (professionally or personally)?

KNOW what you want and ask for it.  

I've realized that you have to go after what you want - every role expansion I got, I asked for. Passively waiting for others to notice your work and offer you opportunities doesn't lead anywhere. But you also have to know what you want. What do you love doing? That way you can look around and see what opportunities you want to pursue, and if you don't see those opportunities, then you can create them. Look for gaps in the company and make a case as to why you can solve those gaps. Write your own job description. The worst thing that can happen is you get a "no" - for now. Try again later.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Some things really aren't that important. Sleep on it.  

So many times, in my career I've let something really bother me and I reacted/responded quickly and later regretted it. Sometimes the best way to deal with something is to let it unfold on its own.

Who has inspired you and how/why?

When I was 9, my parents moved us abroad from Brazil to the Philippines. My mom was thrown into a new culture, new school system, new language - we didn't speak English. Yet, she made sure we were taken care of, and she got her master's in psychology - all in a new language and new country. Her perseverance and passion are huge sources of inspiration.

What is your motivational mantra?

Use your time wisely. Not very relaxing or mantra like, but it's a recurring thought that helps me keep me productive at work and (more importantly) remember to cherish moments with family and friends. In the latter case, "using my time wisely" is enjoying those around me, rather than being distracted by work or devices. ‍

What do you do to make yourself feel strong and empowered?

I focus on my past wins and remind myself of all the times my intuition and experience led me to make the right decisions. A good way to remember - hey, you got this. Trust yourself.

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If this wasn’t a big enough sign for you to go after what you want, then I don’t know what is. The thought of hearing the word ‘no’ can be daunting but you’ll never get to where you want to go unless you just try and ask. Thank you for sharing, Raquel! We appreciate all that you do at TextNow. Don’t miss the rest of our leadership spotlight series ✨

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