[Photo: Dartmouth / Katie Lenhart]

The GenHERation^® 5 Questions series features our exclusive interviews with the most powerful women in the world to provide you with actionable advice on how to navigate your career path.

Dr. Sian Leah Beilock is the President of Dartmouth.

What do you know now that you wish you knew at the beginning of your career? 

In the last year, it has become more clear to me than ever that as a leader, you must make decisions based on the north star of your organization. Focusing on Dartmouth’s values, mission, and purpose, for example, has helped me make really difficult calls that I can stand behind.

Which high school or college class best prepared you for your professional career?  

I was planning to attend law school until I heard a biologist talk about how her career had been one set of failures after another – continually conducting experiments that didn’t turn out as expected. And I thought, “Wow, you can actually have a career testing ideas, and it’s OK not to get it right all the time.” After hearing that, I was sold on a career in science.

What is the go-to question you ask interview candidates? 

I like to ask candidates for examples of how they speak up and challenge ideas. It’s important that team members have diverse perspectives and backgrounds and feel comfortable sharing their points of view – even if that means they disagree with me. Data shows that a diverse mix of individuals on a team leads to better decision-making.

What is the biggest risk you have taken? 

Just as my research was gaining recognition in the academic world, I was presented with the opportunity to join the administration at the University of Chicago. I knew taking the role meant stepping off my current trajectory, but it also presented the chance to have an even greater impact. I took the leap and am so glad I did. 

What is your genius?

Through my research, I learned to understand and appreciate that I am many things—a president, scientist, mother, teacher, peer, dreamer, and so much more—and these selves coexist. It’s awareness of these multiple perspectives that shapes how I respond and what makes me a stronger leader.

You can learn from more of the most powerful women in the world here.