Allyn Bailey is a talent futurist, HR technology specialist and practitioner of organisational transformation in companies ranging from multinationals to start-ups.
How did you land your current role? Was it planned?
My career journey has been a fascinating evolution, blending diverse experiences that have shaped my current role. I started with a degree in child and family studies, specializing in infant brain development. This might seem unrelated to my current role, but the foundation of understanding human behavior and needs has been invaluable. My early career focused on teaching teachers how to teach, which taught me the importance of understanding and addressing the needs of those you serve.
I eventually transitioned into marketing at Intel Corporation, where I worked on groundbreaking projects like the introduction of Wi-Fi. This experience was pivotal, as it taught me how to anticipate customer needs and create innovative solutions they didn’t even know they wanted. I also drove strategic talent acquisition transformations at Intel, including the invention of the Talent Acquisition Infinity Loop, a relationship-based approach to advancing the hiring funnel, which traditionally focuses on transactional interactions.
Today, my role at SmartRecruiters is a perfect combination of all my previous experiences as an experience designer, marketer, talent acquisition consultant, and innovator. I lead our customer marketing, brand, and media work. This means I get to connect the stories of our customers with the SmartRecruiters brand and the world of HR and TA innovation and thought leadership. It’s a role that combines a little bit of everything I love, and while my path to this role wasn’t meticulously planned, it was shaped by a continuous desire to innovate and make a meaningful impact. I’ve always been driven by a passion for creating solutions that not only meet current needs but also anticipate future demands.
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you choose your current expertise?
In Customer Marketing, especially within Talent Acquisition and HR tech, key roles include Customer Success Managers, Marketing Consultants, and Data Analysts. These roles are critical for understanding customer needs, designing effective strategies, and measuring impact. My expertise lies in the intersection of technology and human experience, which allows me to create innovative strategies that exceed customer expectations. I chose this field because it aligns with my passion for creating transformative experiences that drive real change for both customers and organizations.
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
Yes, my role model is Whitney Wolfe Herd, the founder and CEO of Bumble. She embodies innovative thinking, bold decision-making, and fearless ownership of her destiny. Her work in creating a platform that empowers women and promotes equality in the tech industry is incredibly inspiring. Whitney’s ability to disrupt a male-dominated industry and create a space where women feel safe and respected aligns with my own values and aspirations.
Have you ever faced insecurities and anxieties during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Absolutely. I’ve faced many challenges, including being fired, laid off, and overlooked for promotions. These experiences have taught me to trust in myself and my abilities. I’ve embraced my journey, taking ownership of my story and building confidence through every experience. I don’t let job titles define me; instead, I focus on consistently adding value. This perspective has allowed me to thrive in environments where my work and ideas earn me a place at the table, regardless of my title.
What are you most proud of in your career, so far?
The moments I’m most proud of involve witnessing the career growth of individuals I’ve mentored or coached. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that I’ve played a role in helping them become who they are today. Seeing emerging leaders rise to challenges and knowing I was there to support them as they discovered their voice and inner strength is immensely rewarding. My greatest achievements often manifest in the success and growth of those I’ve supported, long after our direct interaction has ended.
What does an average work day look like for you?
I’m an early riser, usually starting my day around 5-6 am. I navigate my workday around my teen daughter’s school and event schedules, taking breaks to drive her to school in the morning and wrapping up meetings in time for school pick-up. My later hours are dedicated to independent work, writing, and strategic planning. I work with a broad range of people, including industry thought leaders, influencers, media, PR teams, event organizers, customers, TA leaders, and product leaders in the TA tech space. My days are a blend of strategic planning, team collaboration, and customer engagement.
Are there any specific skills or traits that you notice companies look for when you’re searching for roles in your field?
In Talent Acquisition and HR tech, companies highly value skills like data-driven decision-making and strategic thinking, but there are additional key traits that are essential for success. Experience design is crucial, as it involves understanding and enhancing the user journey to create meaningful interactions. Innovative thinking and problem-solving are equally important, as these skills enable you to develop unique solutions and see around corners, anticipating future needs and challenges.
Companies also look for the ability to connect the dots—identifying patterns and linking insights across different areas to create comprehensive strategies. Adaptability, empathy, and a proactive mindset are vital traits, as they allow you to navigate and thrive in dynamic environments. Building strong relationships with customers and internal teams is essential for driving successful outcomes, ensuring that solutions are not only innovative but also practical and impactful.
What advice would you give other women wanting to reach their career goals in technology?
To succeed in technology, broaden your horizons beyond your immediate area of expertise and learn from diverse perspectives. Engage actively, ask questions, and seek insights from outside your industry. The tech field is constantly evolving, and you can’t rely solely on your current knowledge to ensure future success. Embrace continuous learning and be open to new opportunities that challenge you to grow.
How can companies effectively support and advance the careers of women in the technology sector?
First and foremost, companies need to address wage disparity and ensure women are paid what they deserve. Leaders must promote women into decision-making roles and ensure their voices are heard. Women should be intentional about where they work and whom they work with, seeking environments that align with their goals. I personally seek roles where I report to strong women leaders, as I’ve seen the positive impact this has on my career.
Entering the world of work can be daunting. Do you have any words of advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed?
Absolutely, it can be overwhelming, but my best advice is to find your tribe. It took me a long time to realize that the people I surround myself with make all the difference. Your tribe is the group of individuals who promote and stand for you even when you’re not in the room. For me, it’s a network of badass women who lift each other up.
In a tribe, we find not just collective success but also individual success. We grow by elevating and amplifying each other’s voices and ideas. Look for opportunities to connect with others who share your values and goals. Attend conferences, join professional groups, and seek out networks like the Catalyst Group or Chief, which support women in leadership roles. I also co-founded the Talent Rebel Alliance with Tracy Parsons, specifically to empower women leaders in TA and HR. These connections provide invaluable support and guidance as you navigate your career journey. Remember, success is much more attainable when you have a strong, supportive community by your side.
