“What advice would you give to a woman who is planning on or now moving into a new leadership role & those who want to support her?”
To be sure, women leaders do and will likely continue to encounter certain biases and challenges in the foreseeable future. Research irrefutably demonstrates that women are disproportionately subject to the impact of conscious and unconscious bias.
Here are a few of my thoughts for rising female leaders and those who support them:
- It’s harder to build things up with patience & collaboration than it is to tear things down in battle. Take the lead. Build the high road.
- Stand in YOUR own shoes, regardless of gender labels. You have your own footprint. Leave it. Distinctly. It’s ok if it gets messy at times. It means you’re running interference for something better.
- Avoid getting focused on gender bias. There’s lots of bias out there. Gender is one of many. It exists. You’ll overcome.
- Be wary, careful, smart. Walk if you have to, on your terms. There’s another opportunity around the corner. Make your way; welcome support, especially women’s.
- Don’t be afraid to be empathetic, considerate, inclusive, reflective. If you feel it’s perceived as “weakness”, italicize it in a way that it’s understood, ie, appropriately strong, effective, impactful. (This is a point of continual learning and growth for many, me too. We’re always learning, regardless of gender)
- We need your style. Do YOUR thing in leading, supporting, rising up.
- And when (not IF) you stumble, look to your mentors & supporters, regardless of gender, ethnicity, title, etc.
- Diversity & Inclusion. That’s your invisible jet, WonderWoman.
If I can help or support you in any way, I welcome the opportunity to do so. Shoot me an email. We’ll connect.
P.S. Go Girl!
P.P.S. Thank you, Supporters!!
© Kirstin Lowry Sommers, J.D., C.P.C.
