What challenges have you faced in your professional career because you were a woman and how did you overcome them?
The challenges I've faced as a female in the business world have varied depending on the decade and corporate culture in which I found myself. What I have found in certain instances is that females have a narrow tolerance range of behaviors. If you're at one extreme of assertiveness you are labeled as "too pushy". If your tendency is to observe and listen and in meetings you risk being labeled as a non-contributor or someone who doesn't understand. My best advice is to focus on doing what's best for the company and preserving your working relationships. If you work on these aspects in everything you do, seek out challenges, make your successes known, and voice your career expectations you will meet your personal goals.
What forms of support do you think a woman needs in the workplace in order to become a good leader and manager?
A women or man need a good mentor network, a boss who is concerned about your development, and a supportive family. Some larger firms have mentoring programs, but in many companies you are on your own. Regardless of which company you find yourself in, be a voracious learner who taps into other's experiences. Find someone who you view as a role model and pick his or her brain. What made them a success? If you see someone handle a complex or politically charged situation seamlessly, talk to him or her about how they did it? Fully understand the culture and unwritten rules where you work and develop the skills you need to succeed in this environment. Through the process of doing these, you will discover the strengths within your leadership style and how to bring the best out in people
How do you stay inspired and passionate about your work?
Simple. Choose a position or career path in which you are happy, learning, and challenged. If you're in a position, career path, or company in which you cannot answer yes to any of these three elements it might be time to reassess your career plan. If you like what you do, are fully engaged in your job, and can have a positive impact your enthusiasm and passion will show. One caution, work balance is critical, as I have seen too many a person define themselves by their job and miss some of the non-working happiness in life.
What is your favorite part of the workday?
Coaching the people I work with. The people who work for me are valued and equal team members regardless of their level. I consider it my responsibility to develop them and provide them the tools they need to succeed. I know them all personally, we work hard together, and we celebrate our successes.
Your favorite quote/words of wisdom
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. --Margaret Mead
Your favorite books
Shackleton's Way: Leadership Lessons from the Great Antarctic Explorer, Morrell and Capparell
Disappearing Acts: Gender, Power, and Relational Practice at Work, Joyce K. Fletcher
