It may
have been some time since you last heard from me, but I'm working on a plan to
make up for it along with a refresh and revamp of our marketing content. I'm
excited and hope you enjoy your front row seat as we share this journey.
While Women’s History Month has come to a close, as a part of
our pledge to #PressforProgress on International
Women’s Day, we’re
planning on continuing the celebration of successful women in information
management throughout the year. My
journey into this industry began with the late Nien-Ling Wacker, founder of
Laserfiche, so we found it fitting to begin by honoring her.
Our
business would not be where it is today if Nien-Ling had not developed her idea
of a simple, elegant document management system into a successful enterprise. I
also owe some of my personal success to this visionary woman.
Over the
years, I had many encounters with Nien-Ling as we connected on many fronts. She
was always very warm to me and loved that I had left the corporate world to
work with my father. I have many fond memories of her, but my most memorable
was a 60-second elevator ride.
As I recall
it, during this elevator ride she leaned over and asked:
"Tell
me, will I see you on the cruise?" (The Winners Circle cruise for top
resellers was scheduled to take place immediately following the conference)
"No
ma'am, but we are close."
"Close?"
She questioned.
"Yes.
I've been working with an industry association, and Tom's been busy with the
hotel." This was his other business at the time.
She
backed up in the elevator (which was packed because the annual conference had
outgrown its space) and looked at me squarely in the face and said,
"Laserfiche is not a hobby. It's either all you do, or not what you
do."
I froze
as I scoured my mind for the reason why we hadn't made it to the winner's
circle yet. In that moment, what she said stung and brought tears to my
30-year-old eyes. However, it also sparked a passion in me that has been a
driving force ever since. You better believe we have achieved winner's circle
ever since, too!
So,
here's to the woman whose name means "smarter every year" in Chinese,
and to all the women in our histories who have challenged us to become our best
selves. I look forward to sharing our new content as we Run Smarter.
See
you later this week at the AIIM conference!
~Eren
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