Mentorship isn’t just a career booster—it’s a catalyst for personal and professional transformation. In this session, we’ll explore practical strategies for becoming an impactful mentor and finding the right mentor for your journey. Learn how to set clear expectations, foster trust, and create a two-way learning experience that benefits both parties. Whether you’re new to mentoring or looking to elevate your approach, you’ll leave with actionable tips, real-world examples, and a roadmap to build relationships that drive growth, confidence, and community.
talk-data.com
Speaker
Heather Cook
6
talks
Heather Cook is the Principal Customer Experience Manager for the Microsoft 365 Customer Advocacy Group, Collaborative Applications and Platform Group at Microsoft. She leads engagement, evangelism, and growth by building strategy, programs, and connections for community members with Microsoft, and is a former Microsoft MVP for Microsoft 365 Apps and Services. With 24 years as a marketing executive in tech, she founded Creative Maven and has worked as a consultant, event producer, and fractional chief marketing officer, producing thousands of events and campaigns in tech and entertainment. She is a corporate and community keynote speaker, hosts the Mavens Do It Better podcast, and is a published playwright, theatre actor, director, and UW Drama alum.
Bio from: Microsoft Ignite 2025
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Looking to make the move from a manager to leadership? In this talk we'll frame the progression that Product Managers make in their career before zooming in on the most important inflection point in a PM’s career: the jump from Product Manager to Product Leader. We’ll talk about best practices and common pitfalls.
The Microsoft community is a powerful network of professionals, advocates, and innovators—but where do you start? This interactive session will show you how to get involved, share your expertise, and build your personal brand. Learn best practices from experienced community leaders and discover opportunities to contribute meaningfully. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned participant, you’ll leave inspired and equipped to take your next step.
Connection Pods accommodate up to 15 people. Please RSVP and arrive at least 5 minutes before the start time, at which point remaining spaces are open to standby attendees.
Allyship is essential for building inclusive workplaces, but how do we turn good intentions into real impact? Join this interactive forum to explore practical ways allies can advocate, amplify, and act. Through open discussion and shared experiences, we’ll uncover strategies to challenge bias, foster equity, and create a culture where everyone thrives. Whether you’re a woman in tech or an ally, you’ll leave with actionable steps to make a difference.
Connection Pods accommodate up to 15 people. Please RSVP and arrive at least 5 minutes before the start time, at which point remaining spaces are open to standby attendees.
Allyship isn’t a buzzword—it’s a commitment to creating workplaces where everyone can thrive. Join this interactive Community Forum to explore what authentic allyship looks like and why it matters. We’ll share real-world scenarios, practical strategies, and personal stories that highlight how allies can advocate, amplify, and act. Whether you identify as an ally or want to engage allies in your journey, you’ll leave with actionable steps to foster inclusion, challenge bias, and build a culture of equity in tech.
Communities thrive when people come together with purpose. This session introduces the Microsoft Global Community Initiative (MGCI) and how it empowers individuals to share knowledge, collaborate, and drive change worldwide. Join us to learn how you can participate, lead, and amplify your voice in this global movement. Walk away with insights, resources, and next steps to make your mark in the Microsoft community.
Connection Pods accommodate up to 15 people. Please RSVP and arrive at least 5 minutes before the start time, at which point remaining spaces are open to standby attendees.