“Your Voice Matters, Even if You’re the Only Woman in the Room”

Amrita Nag, the Country Marketing Manager-SYS Commercial at ASUS, says tech can feel intimidating, especially early on, but you don’t have to know everything from the start

Can you share your journey into the technology world?
I started out in the tech world in a role that let me explore a bit of everything — from market research and events to PR and branding — right after my post-grad in management. At the time, I didn’t fully realize it, but that early exposure sparked what would become a lasting connection with technology and digital transformation. Over the years, I’ve worked with some of the leading names in cybersecurity, enterprise tech, and infrastructure, and with each role, I picked up something new.

Whether it was launching thought leadership campaigns or building brand visibility across diverse markets, I found myself drawn to the intersection of tech and storytelling — and how the right message can bring innovation to life. Today, I still see marketing as more than promotion; it’s a way to connect people with purpose-driven technology.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a woman, and how did you overcome them?
Let’s be honest — women still face challenges at work. From unequal pay to feeling unheard or having to prove yourself twice as hard, these experiences don’t just stay at work — they affect your confidence. I’ve had moments when speaking up felt risky, and I’ve definitely been underestimated.

But those moments taught me the value of standing my ground. Leadership isn’t always comfortable, but it’s about staying true to yourself. Over time, I’ve focused less on being accepted and more on doing the work well — and letting that speak for itself. Supporting other women along the way has also made a huge difference. When we lift each other up, we open the door for others to do the same.

How do you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved over time? What strategies do you use to motivate and empower your team?
My leadership style has changed a lot over the years. Early on, I was focused on getting things done. But experience showed me that people matter just as much as results. Now, I make it a point to listen more, support my team, and give them space to grow.

I try to recognize good work, offer chances to learn, and keep communication open — both ways. Giving people ownership and encouraging creativity has helped us build trust as a team. In the end, leadership for me is about creating a space where people feel they can do their best work and be themselves.

Have you had any mentors or role models who have significantly influenced your career? How did they impact your journey?
While I’ve never had a formal mentor, I’ve learned a lot from the people I’ve worked with. One agency founder, in particular, offered me guidance during a tough phase — that conversation gave me the clarity I needed to move forward. These kinds of experiences have reminded me that mentorship can come in different forms. Sometimes it’s a colleague, a partner, or even a peer. The key is being open to learning from the people around you — and those moments can shape you more than you expect.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the technology world?
If you’re a young woman entering tech, here’s my advice: don’t doubt yourself. Your voice matters, even if you’re the only woman in the room. Tech can feel intimidating, especially early on, but you don’t have to know everything from the start. Stay curious, ask questions, and keep learning. Confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers — it means trusting yourself enough to ask the right questions.

Can you highlight some of your proudest achievements in your career so far?
One of my first projects involved organizing a digital transformation event — a space I wasn’t familiar with. Instead of pretending to know it all, I asked questions and listened. That not only helped me understand the subject but also built trust with the team. That experience taught me the value of humility and being willing to learn — something that still helps me today.

How do you manage work-life balance, and what tips do you have for other women striving to achieve this balance?
My career has taken a few turns — from tech to retail and back — and each chapter came with its own lessons. One role I’m particularly proud of started small: leading marketing for a single business unit. It was challenging, but I saw it as a chance to build something meaningful.

Eventually, I earned the opportunity to head marketing across the company’s full tech portfolio. I led campaigns that grew visibility, drove results, and truly connected with audiences. Looking back, it’s the combination of persistence, creativity, and staying grounded that made that journey worthwhile.

For me, work-life balance isn’t a luxury — it’s necessary. I’ve learned that when I take care of myself, I do better at work too. I try to set boundaries, unplug when I need to, and make time for family, friends, or just walking my dog. Some days are all work, and some are personal — and that’s okay. Balance isn’t about perfect days; it’s about making space for what matters. My advice to others: protect your energy and give yourself permission to slow down when needed.