At Principal, we prioritize meaningful investments. Establishing skilled teams serves as the cornerstone of our approach. Allow a moment to acquaint yourself with Ben Meiners, our claim assistant. Ben finds immense satisfaction in the growth prospects and exceptional work-life balance offered by Principal. Discover more about what drives his dedication to bringing his best to work every day.

Click here to explore opportunities to join our team.

Could you please tell us a bit about yourself and your role?
My name is Olivia, and I serve as a Quality Analyst I within the Care Team. Originally from Kenya, I've called Arizona home for the past decade.
 
What real-world challenges does your team address?
Our team is dedicated to supporting various initiatives centered around feedback and issue resolution within Care. One notable project is the WOW experience, which revolutionizes customer interactions by providing our Guides with a structured approach to delivering exceptional service. Whether it's sales, support, or any customer-facing role, this process aims to enhance the customer's journey with us.
 
Which project stands out as particularly rewarding in your career?
Creating the five pillars of the WOW experience for our Care Guides has been immensely fulfilling. Starting as an Inbound Sales Guide at GoDaddy, I experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating through new products and tech support while identifying sales opportunities. Developing the WOW experience provided a roadmap tailored for new Guides, enabling them to navigate through technical challenges with confidence.
 
You're actively engaged in various organizations within GoDaddy. How has this impacted your overall experience?
Joining GoDaddy in 2020 during the transition to remote work posed challenges in connecting beyond my immediate team. Seeking both social connections and career growth opportunities, I discovered the Level UP event hosted by Black in Tech (GDBIT), one of our Employee Resource Groups. This involvement led me to become an active member and eventually part of the GDBIT Core Team. Being a part of this community has transformed my work environment, fostering a sense of belonging through activities like volunteering and hosting game nights.
 
What's your personal motto or mantra?
"I'm brave. I'm justice. I can make a difference. I'm resilient." I instill these words in my son daily before he heads to school.
 
What are your interests outside of work?
I'm passionate about traveling. After completing high school, I ventured out of my home country. I spent two months in the United Kingdom before relocating to Dubai to pursue a career as a Flight Attendant. Even after leaving the airline industry, my love for travel remains strong. If airlines offered retirement packages akin to cruise ships, I'd be the first to sign up!
 
What significance does Black History Month hold for you?
Black History Month serves as a pivotal time to acknowledge, honor, and celebrate the remarkable lives and contributions of African Americans who have profoundly impacted society.
 
What message do you hope your colleagues, neighbors, and friends take away from Black History Month?
I urge my colleagues, neighbors, and friends to engage in self-education. Take the time to explore Black history, visit Black history museums, or delve into literature written by Black authors.

We strongly support the notion that innovation flourishes when a variety of brilliant and imaginative individuals collaborate. Our organization takes pride in fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can excel, and we are delighted to be recognized as one of Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity due to our commitment to this cause.

To know more click here.

Every June, Pride Month takes place to honor and uplift the LGBTQIA+ community. The theme for 2023, 'Strength in Solidarity,' emphasizes the cultural importance of the community while recognizing the individuality of each person and the immense power we possess when we join together for a worthy cause.
 
Pierric Chabat, Marketing Manager at VMware, emphasizes that Pride Month is not only a time for celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and progress of the LGBTQIA+ community. He emphasizes the importance of continuing to celebrate Pride Month to acknowledge the efforts and challenges faced by individuals who fought for our right to exist openly without fear.
 
Anca Titu, Manager, Deal Management Team and Pride@VMware Ireland co-chair at VMWare, highlights that Pride Month is a chance for allies to participate and support the LGBTQ+ community. She believes that being present and showing support is a meaningful first step toward becoming an ally.
 
James Hogan, Senior Director, NEMEA End-User Computing, agrees that being an ally is crucial and achievable. He encourages asking genuine questions and expressing interest as part of the learning process and mutual support within the community.
 
Pierric, Anca, and James discuss their personal perspectives on Pride, the significance of allyship, and why they believe technology companies like VMware are well-positioned to promote equality.
 
Q: What does 'Pride' mean to you? Why is it important to celebrate Pride Month?
 
Pierric: Pride, to me, represents the freedom to be authentic and proud of who we are, shining a light on the diverse individuals within our community. It is unfortunate that many parts of the world still deny this basic right that we enjoy in my privileged living environment.
 
Anca: To me, "Pride" signifies solidarity, safety, equality, and affirmation. Solidarity is crucial as we inherently seek connection and acceptance from those around us. Even small acts of support can make a significant difference.
 
Safety and equality are fundamental human rights, but unfortunately, they remain elusive for many LGBTQ+ individuals. It is our responsibility to work towards turning this dream into a reality. The affirmation provided by Pride Month holds immense importance for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.
 
James: Pride, to me, signifies the freedom for individuals to express their true selves without fear of judgment and the importance of inclusion. While I acknowledge the progress we have made as a society, it's crucial to note that my perspective comes from being a straight privileged male. Celebrating Pride shouldn't be limited to just one month but should be a daily practice. I appreciate having Pride Month as an opportunity to truly honor our unique qualities and remind everyone of the ongoing journey ahead.
 
Q: How can employees show support for the LGBTQIA+ community and become allies? Are there any specific activities or events for employees to demonstrate their support?
 
Anca: One way to begin supporting the LGBTQ+ community and becoming an ally is by being present and showing support. Participating in VMware's Pride Month events provides a great opportunity, as they offer a variety of activities including trainings, speaker series, and enjoyable events. Additionally, the PRIDE@VMware POD is always seeking to expand its community. There are numerous ways to get involved, stay informed about events and service-learning opportunities, and even join the POD as an active member. As this year's theme emphasizes, there is strength in solidarity.
 
James: I always consider whether our company is seen as a place where individuals can bring their authentic selves to work. While we have made progress, it's important to continuously challenge ourselves. By empathizing and understanding others' perspectives, we can gain insight into what still needs to be accomplished. This is why allyship is incredibly important.
 
Pierric: Educating yourself and conducting thorough research is vital. Each person has different experiences and boundaries, so it's essential not to make assumptions but instead ask questions respectfully. Simple acts like using someone's correct pronouns or not assuming the gender of someone's partner may seem small, but they can have a significant impact on someone's well-being. If you have the means, consider donating money or your time to charities and organizations that support the LGBTQIA+ community and advocate for their rights. If you witness harassment or encounter uncomfortable jokes or unsolicited comments, it's important to speak out against them. We should not tolerate discrimination in any form.
 
Q: What role can technology companies like VMware play in advancing LGBTQIA+ rights and promoting inclusivity on a broader scale?
 
Pierric: Technology companies such as VMware have the power to influence and set a positive example for other organizations. They can go beyond legal requirements and ensure that LGBTQIA+ employees receive the same rights, protections, and benefits as their heterosexual counterparts. In some places, there are no mandates for companies to provide equal benefits like parental leave, family planning assistance, or comprehensive healthcare. It is crucial for corporations to create a safe environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work.
 
Anca: Technology companies like VMware can make a significant impact in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as other marginalized groups. Firstly, by establishing effective diversity, equity, and inclusion goals, they can foster an inclusive and safe culture where employees can truly be themselves. This benefits both individuals and the overall company. Secondly, VMware provides resources such as mental health support and Take-a-Break days, advocates for self-identification, supports legislation for LGBTQIA+ rights globally, and has internal policies that ensure equality and support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
 
Q: What advice do you have for LGBTQIA+ individuals aspiring to pursue a career in the technology industry? Are there any recommended resources or communities to assist them on their journey?
 
Anca: I encourage anyone interested in a tech career to take the leap, as it can be an incredibly rewarding path, especially in a company like VMware that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. When it comes to resources, annual reports that assess companies' diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts can provide insights into their culture. Additionally, dedicated communities like myGwork, which VMware has partnered with, offer valuable professional connections and support for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
 
Pierric: The technology industry is one of the most inclusive industries I've had the privilege to work in. While there is still progress to be made globally, the IT field is rapidly becoming more diverse and inclusive. I have always felt comfortable being my true self in the workplace and have been open with my colleagues about being part of the LGBTQIA+ community.