Career Ambitions writes:
But even as we write this, gender inequality in the workplace is a controversial and very visible topic.
According to a study by Kent University’s School of Psychology, women are ‘becoming far more economically independent and socially autonomous, representing 42% of the UK workforce and 55% of university graduates’, a significant percentage. However, despite the women often being more highly educated and qualified than men, they are still less likely to be employed in leadership positions than men. And studies have found that even today, women earn approximately £140,000 LESS than men in their lifetimes.
Did you know that if you are a Mother, your chances of being employed are reduced by a massive 70%?
The truth is that the stereotype “women stay at home and men go out to work” still reigns strong, even if many would be quick to deny it! So it’s up women to change this stereotype, by showcasing just how capable they are of performing the same roles (and higher!) than men.
Leading a team of men, and for that matter, women, can be pretty daunting. However, while this may mean there are more challenges, it also means that there are greater opportunities for women to shine!
So, what are the secrets to successfully leading #LikeAGirl?
CONFIDENCE
A good leader is a confident leader. If you believe you can do it, then others will too! Even when you feel like jelly on the inside, make sure your outside is calm to portray confidence at all times, and instill confidence in others too.
BE FIRM, BUT KIND
As a leader, you need to enforce rules and deadlines, and have the authority to get your workforce to obey these. But let’s be honest, no one likes a mean boss. We’re all human, after all! The secret is to find the perfect balance between soft and strict.
STICK TO YOUR GUNS
Make decisions, and stick by them. Take responsibility for those decisions. That’s what a leader is there for! It’s your job to take charge of situations and be decisive at a time when others are struggling to be, in order to find a solution swiftly and smoothly.
DRESS SMARTLY
If you don’t look like a leader on the outside, then it will be hard to feel like one on the inside. As a woman, a lot can be said for a kick ass pair of heels and a smart tailored suit! Those extra inches might just make you feel a little taller, and give you the confidence to truly lead.
THERE’S NO ‘I’ IN TEAM
If you commit to your team, then they’re more likely to commit to you. Prove to them that you are there as part of the team, rather than as their manager. Try to use inclusive language such as ‘we’ rather than the patronising ‘I’ in order to integrate yourself more effectively.
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Do you need help building your confidence and leadership techniques in order to be a confident leader in the workplace? Contact Career Ambitions for coaching that will help you to reach the top of your career ladder.
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