Rokt’star Spotlight: Michael Gülçiçek
As Rokt sets out to unleash its best year yet, we’re taking a moment to highlight some of the Rokt’stars that help their teams thrive by challenging the status quo and working in different ways. Read on to hear about their time at Rokt and what makes them tick both in and out of the office.
Meet Michael
You recently led the Rainbow Rokt’s Gender Identity Lunch and Learn. What topics did you discuss?
We discussed gender identity and expression and covered the cultural context throughout history and delved into some of the critical theory and what it means to have gender in our society. We also gave people ways that they can be an ally in the office space and how they can pursue allyship in their day-to-day lives.
What were some of the highlights from this event?
It was amazing to explore a broad range of topics within the LGBTQ and gender space with people at Rokt from all levels. There is something special about giving everyone an entry point into understanding pronouns and gender identity and expression! We wanted to create an environment that encouraged people that it’s okay to make mistakes and be comfortable in the discomfort of the unknown.
How are you celebrating Pride Month?
I’m celebrating Pride Month by being my full self. I think Pride is showing up everyday and feeling like you can genuinely express who you are! I feel grateful to be located in a place that’s a safe space where if I want to wear a skirt or paint my nails, I don’t have to worry about it.
What is Rainbow Rokts hoping to achieve this year and beyond?
Rokt already does a great job at making people feel comfortable at work. With this in mind, we want to further recognize the diverse spectrum of LGBTQ identities that exists in the office. Maybe some people that aren’t comfortable with being out in the office in certain ways, so we want to encourage creating an environment that lets them feel the ability to be their full selves.
We’re also working on making Rokt a more pronoun forward space by finding ways for folks to include their pronouns in email signatures and really aligning with Rokt’s values of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
What is your advice for those who want to be better allies?
People’s identities are valid! If you hear someone’s pronouns, but they look like a man or a woman, try to be curious and understand that this is their perspective. It’s also important to ask questions out of a place of genuine curiosity. It’s a great way to learn. Additionally, be sure to take inventory of your own life. Do all the people look and identify the same as you? Make note of those things and seek out diverse perspectives.
Tell us more about your role and how it impacts the Rokt products.
I work on the Partnerships team, and a big part of what we do is explore relationships with other tech partners, agencies, and start ups. From these relationships we’re able to align with companies to expand the reach of Rokt’s solutions. By working with these partners we can drive mutual outcomes and improve and see different ways partners can utilize the product. We’re really focused on building a broader network for Rokt.
What are your passions or hobbies outside of the office?
I am very passionate about photography! I’ve taken a few classes and would love to pursue it as a side hustle.
How is Rokt different from other places you’ve worked?
Rokt employees are some of the most intelligent people I’ve ever worked with. It’s a great environment of people who can enjoy themselves but always remain professional in the process. I also always feel like I can be my full self in the office!
What is your favorite memory while working at Rokt?
Our Global Kick Off (GKO) in Whistler this past year was really amazing! It was when I first started at Rokt, and I was blown away by the whole event from the speakers to the energy. An added bonus was getting to ride up a mountain in a gondola and getting a glass of champagne along the way.
What was your favorite band in highschool?
Sia’s “Chandelier” was an absolute moment for me!
Want to learn more about Rokt’s employee resource groups? Check out our diversity and community page here.