Suzanne Norman

CMT’s top-ranking female exec, Norman leads day-to-day operations. Recent accomplishments include realigning CMT within the Viacom Kids and Family Group, and overseeing growth for the net’s digital initiatives. The key to mentoring, she says, is listening. “It’s not about being quiet, but rather being an active listener in order to understand the full picture of any given situation.”

Where are the biggest growth areas for women in cable?

Opportunities for women in this industry are endless, regardless of your area of interest.  Cable is full of strong female executives, producers, creatives, attorneys, HR and finance professionals.

What’s the most important aspect of mentoring?

I learned early in my career that listening is one of the most valuable skills an executive can utilize.  It’s not about being quiet, but rather being an active listener in order to understand the full picture of any given situation.  Oftentimes people are so busy thinking about what to say next, that that they miss the most important information.

Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?

As a female leader with a family, I accept that we simply can’t “have it all.” However, we can find fulfillment both personally and professionally.  Balance is different for everyone and priorities change, which means we have to constantly adapt to any given situation.