Want To Take On a Leadership Role in Tech? This Director Says: ‘Ground Yourself in Kindness’

Esther Schenau leads a team of Tableau Solution Engineers specializing in the media, entertainment, and telecommunications industry — focusing on analytics and business intelligence — at Salesforce. 

“I’ve been a people leader in Solution Engineering for more than five years,” she tells Fairygodboss. “Before Tableau, I worked in a variety of spaces. Since transitioning into leadership at Salesforce, my role changed from executing the daily tasks within my scope and expanded to tactical and strategic moves for my team. The job became much more centered on people and influence, requiring more mindful, thoughtful ways of leading within the role.”

She describes her leadership style as being a “challenger” who expects “great things” from people, and she says that poise was the favorite quality of the best boss she’s ever had.  Here, we learn more about how she leads, her mentorship experiences, and her best advice for other women moving into leadership roles. 

What’s one strategy you’ve used when managing an individual or team that you think has been particularly effective?

I’ve always encouraged individuals to dig deep into their strengths. It has been more effective to build a team that knows their strengths and forms a network of support rather than a collection of individuals trying to fit a mold. Knowing how to use your strengths to add value in your role creates a space for team members to shine and helps each other improve in areas that aren’t their strengths. 

While building your team, what did you learn that surprised you most?

One of the surprises was that not everyone was chasing a promotion or the next rung of achievement. I realized that everyone is in different phases of their career. Radical Candor, a book by former Apple and Google executive Kim Malone Scott, has a great framework for this: the rockstars and superstars of the team. One isn’t better or worse than the other; they’re simply different and require a different partnership from their leader. 

What’s the No. 1 thing you hope your direct reports are getting from working with you?

Ultimately, I care about a culture of belonging and that my reports feel they’re being pushed to be the best professionals they can be while being accepted for who they are.

Can you identify anything you said or did that earmarked you as someone ready for advancement, specifically into leadership?

Honestly, I can’t recall if there was a specific moment other than raising my hand and interviewing for the role. I was a high performer, known for a range of interests and technical capabilities as an individual. I was curious about everything, but it was a surprise to my skip level when I expressed my interest. 

Managing people — especially if you’re new to it — isn’t easy. How has Salesforce and your manager helped set you up for success? How is this kind of support reflective of the overall culture at Salesforce?

First, they believed in me, and they saw potential in me. I can never be grateful enough. I believe everyone has something to teach me. If the only resource we never get a refund on is time, then my leaders' investment in me is cherished. Consistent time spent listening to and coaching me one-on-one has been phenomenal. Overall, this translates to a wider company culture around a growth mindset and ensuring people feel valued. 

How has having a mentor or sponsor (or being a mentor or sponsor) enriched your own work experience?

My mentors have provided valuable advice and accountability over the years. They can be perceptive, objective sounding boards and feedback mechanisms when you’re too close to the situation and can’t see the big picture. Being a mentor has been equally rewarding. I’ve found it to be so much fun to connect with other people in a meaningful way. It’s an honor to be a mentor, and I take that role seriously. 

What is your No. 1 piece of advice for other women who are moving into or want to move into leadership?

Borrowing from Brené Brown: soft front, strong back, wild heart. What that means to me: Care emphatically about your people and be bold in advocating for them. Support them without rescuing them so they can truly grow. Always ground yourself in kindness. 

What’s been your most valuable career mistake?

Many years ago, I publicly called someone out on my first day at a new company. Needless to say, my new boss wasn’t thrilled, and I thought I was on their “trouble” list for a long time. I learned that there are productive ways to discuss misaligned opinions, and doing so in a productive manner can yield much better results. 

Ultimately, what has led you to stay at Salesforce?

I came for the product but stayed for the people. They’re some of the smartest, humblest, and intelligent people I’ve had the pleasure to know. The authenticity of the folks around me is why I stay. 

What is your favorite perk about working at Salesforce?

The flexibility and work-life balance. 

How do you prioritize and deal with your to-do list each day?

A combo of Bullet Journal and Do/Defer/Delegate system.

What’s your go-to stress-relief activity or routine?

HIIT, hiking, painting, meditation, and staying active in nature.