PowHer Move Strategy: TATB

“Women take care; men take charge.” This is the pervasive mindset in many organizations that corrupts culture and holds women back. What’s worse is that in many cases it’s true: we really do take care instead of taking charge. It’s not only culture standing in our way but it’s also how we show up that’s…

The Invisible Woman Syndrome

I can remember my very first retail job. I was a part-time salesperson at a store called Lottie’s Shoes in Hampton, VA. I had no idea the role would position me for not only who I am today but also for several years in leadership. The reality is, I was a leader and demonstrated leadership…

Me and My Big Fat A….

Over the weekend, I met a friend for breakfast. As we discussed business, life and laughed about “family drama”, we devoured a delicious meal followed by continuous conversation. While walking our breakfast off, the conversation led to a mutual moment of confession.  “I need to work out more.” Wouldn’t you know, we belong to the…

Stop Questioning Your Qualifications

“My resume did the talking for me. I had the initial interview, they sent me in for a second round and I’ll hear back from them Monday.” A male client enthusiastically shared the results of my assistance as he transitions from his current role into what’s next. Unfortunately, women not only question their confidence, they…

Are You Self-Made?

The internet was abuzz celebrating and debating whether or not Kylie Jenner is deserving of the label “self-made.” If the argument is she has an advantage because she’s a member of the Kardashian clan, I’ll raise my hand to add “her brother Rob is as well.” Certainly, there’s more to her success aside from her…

PowHer Play Strategy: C-Speak

I understand breaking the glass ceiling and ascending to the C-Suite may not be your ultimate career dream. It certainly wasn’t mine. Regardless of where you are within the organization, upward mobility mandates you’ll interact with those more senior than you. When you do, make no mistake, the air is different up there! The energy…

Success Leaves Clues

I recently raised my hand to lead a Squad of women within Ellevate, which I joined in January of this year. What I love about our Squad is that we share resources, offer feedback, encouragement and support in a safe (virtual) environment over a 12-week period. Prior to our initial “Minding Your Business” discussion, I…

PowHer Play Strategy: Influence

You have influence but the question is: how are you using it to positively impact the trajectory of your career? While skimming a Harvard Business Review article by Rebecca Knight, she mentioned an unspoken truth: “To be effective in organizations today, you must be able to influence people. Your title alone isn’t always enough to…

Career Moves and Black Shoes

[Full disclosure: this isn’t an article about workplace accessorizing.] This article gives attention to a mistake I made early in my career that women are still making in 2018: we leave career success to chance. While selecting attire for my most recent Sunday morning Publix run, I thought about my love for shoes and that’s…