The demand for qualified women in leadership positions has never been greater. It’s so refreshing – but this window of opportunity could close as quickly as it opened. Are you ready?
There are opportunities at so many levels and regardless of what is on your resume, it’s up to you to craft conversations that will get you heard, recognized, and positioned.
With so many qualified women who have stood along the wall waiting to be asked to dance, there may be just a bit more preparation required, and this science is not typically taught in the classroom.
Now is the time to make yourself a bit uncomfortable by having more open conversations – yes, people want to hear what you have to say. The ability to connect across genders, cultures, and generations will make your career, build your teams and elevate your visibility.
From customer service to technology, the boardroom and beyond, get into the conversation.
I have long preached my 3 C’s: Consistently Communicate your Competence, and it has never been more true. Build alliances and ambassadors, collect testimonials, and get your sh** together. Engage and seek out mentors, and video record yourself to see how you appear to others.
Please don’t confuse confidence with ego, however, be unapologetic when communicating your expertise. Personally, I enjoy it when I catch that “look”…the look that shows the listener has been surprised or impressed.
There are still many in leadership positions that must be won over. The days of hiding your capabilities behind gender and historical barriers are numbered (aka gender is no longer a reason nor excuse).
This won’t be an instant success. There are people still clinging to a mindset of exclusion and privilege; but, there are noticeable chinks in their armor. Are you prepared and willing to break through the preconceived notions that built that glass ceiling?
Track your successes, and collect the accolades.
Education, experience, competence…get out there and master one last skill – “Consistently Communicate your Competence” to be the leader you were born to become.