“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 hindering our progress.
- We do the work, in some cases silently.
- We haven’t established ourselves as a leader, especially if we don’t have direct reports.
- We fail to use our influence and our voice.
What’s the root cause of this?
- 86% of women recall being taught to be nice to others growing up
- 44% were taught to be a good leader
- 34% were taught to share their point of view
Fast forward to how we’re perceived in the workplace…..
76% of women today wish they had learned more about leadership; had more leadership opportunities while growing up.
How can you change it?
- Begin to communicate with confidence and credibility.
- Understand what your leader expects of you from a performance perspective and what you’ll be evaluated on. The two may not be one in the same.
- Think skills, performance and results. Know your impact and communicate it!
At any point in time, be ready to TATB: Talk About The Business…
- How does the work you do tie into the company’s strategy?
- What are the company’s priorities over the next 3-5 years?
- What’s the one thing you can do to move the business forward?
Asking for a friend: If you’re not communicating your impact with confidence and credibility, how are you positioning yourself to play bigger and make PowHer Moves?
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Ericka Spradley is the Chief PowHer Officer of Confident Career Woman which is the premier consulting firm for corporations and the mid-career professional woman who wants to advance, better manage her career, and go further faster. Ericka is an advocate who partners with clients to help women ditch perfection, play bigger and make PowHer Moves by: identifying their next role, creating a career strategy, offering ongoing career guidance, and coaching clients to master interviews. For additional information, visit: ErickaSpradley.com