The corporate world is still a man’s world at the heart and although there has been change over the years, a lot of the definitions and role models for success are still quite masculine.
It’s often hard for women to feel comfortable being themselves… especially if that means leaning into their femininity.
You need to remember, showing up as who you are does not affect your work.
In fact, when you feel authentic, courageous and confident in yourself, your whole demeanor changes.
As Margie Warrell wisely states, “Power has no gender!”
Power is simply about being confident in your authentic self.
On a recent episode of the Women at the Top of Telecoms and Tech podcast, I was joined by the wonderful Jo Gilfoy to discuss how women at the top can create a personal brand… based on exactly who they are! Not who they think they should be.
Jo is Global Head of Commercial, Planning and Engagement at Vodafone and has worked in telco for over 25 years. Jo has learnt to be her authentic and feminine self… using her personal brand as one of her superpowers! Sparkly earrings and gorgeous shoes and all.
Here are the highlights…
“If you don’t have a women’s network – create one!”
This isn’t about blaming the patriarchy, admonishing male leaders in the corporate world or laying the blame at anyone’s door… this is about creating a network of role models and allies who will support you.
You need to be surrounded by people you can learn from and show you that you’re not alone or the only one to feel a certain way.
The whole point is to create a trusted, safe space where you can ask questions, put forward an idea you’re not sure of and just be authentically you.
“Don’t create a wishbone where your backbone should be.”
Stop wishing for things… you have to go and make it happen! Nobody owes you a career, or a promotion, or a holiday!
Even if you work amazingly hard, the only person who will make things happen for you is you! If you want it, what’s your plan?
Speak and own your ambition. You have the capability, you know the goal… what are you going to do?
Get clear on what you want, and take that first step!
“You’ve got to be the voice for people who feel they don’t have one”
By being courageous as yourself you’re paving the way for those after you to do the same.
Women around you in the business – and in life – are going to be inspired by you, and will aspire to be you.
As a woman at the top, other women look up to you as their role model. You have that added role of making sure you set the right example…
- Speaking on panels and sharing your expertise
- Mentoring others
- Challenging toxic behaviour and calling out others
- Sharing the lived experience of women in a male dominated industry!
The women after us, our daughters and granddaughters, shouldn’t have to fight as hard as those before them.
With each woman at the top, it’s easier for the next one to come along!
Want to hear more?
These are just some of the highlights you can listen to the full discussion here:
Big love
Nic
P.S If you need my help supporting women in your organisation and closing the gender pay gap you can contact me below.
