I’ll come right out and say it: Being a woman in the executive business world isn’t easy. We have to work twice as hard to achieve the same amount of respect as any man. There, I said it. I say this, because I have been there and experienced many setbacks in my career. And, yes, I still experience setbacks in my industry because of my gender. But I never once let it stop me from being what I wanted to be. In fact, the fight it took to get where I am today made me a stronger woman and I know that I have the ability to conquer whatever is thrown my way.
As women, we know that we have to always do better than the average asks for, and we have to be able to be independent. But how do we do that in the office without jeopardizing our jobs as coming across as aggressive or too confident? Knowing where you want to be and having a plan in order to get there is a good start.
Fist thing is first: What does success mean to you?
Spend some time and really think about your answer to this question. In your eyes, what does it really mean to be successful? Success cannot be objectively quantified. Your definition of success should be unique and should represent who you are and what you stand for. Success isn’t short lived. Who we are and what we do with our presence in this world determines the life we will live. Determine what you want and when you want it in your life timeline. Write a business plan for your career and have deadlines for your own goals to be successful. Incorporate education into your career path. Make it work for you and your lifestyle, because your success is what you believe it to be.
When necessary, be assertive, aggressive, and confident.
The fear of rejection lives in all of us. As women, the fear of being rejected will always be at the back of our minds. I don’t know what it is that makes us feel this way! I read a business study a few months ago, and it stated that women who not only display, but also regulate confidence and assertive qualities tend to succeed the most. Though it’s good to possess these qualities, women who are able to adapt their behaviour in any given situation are even more likely to be successful in their role. Know when to be assertive and when to let things be.
Know your value, and make sure others see it.
How can you make your self indispensable in the office? Always be one step ahead of the game and always think one step ahead than your team members. By increasing your overall performance, you will build a good reputation for yourself and earn your manager’s respect. This does not just happen over night. You have to work for it. Being consistent in your habits you project will go a long way.
Keep track of your achievements. When it’s time for your employment review, it’s good to have a list of what you have accomplished at the office in the past to convince your manager why you should be promoted. Coming into the office early or just getting your workload completed isn’t enough. Think outside the box and always go a step ahead of what is required.
The Importance of a Mentor.
I cannot stress how important it is to have a mentor. Without my mentor when I first got into the real estate industry, I don’t know how I would have gotten ahead in my career. And may I add that having a WOMAN as a mentor just kicks it up a notch? ;) Women are emotional beings and they relate to you when you you experience disappointments and hardships. They understand the battles and the work it takes to get to the top.
Whether it is someone you have personally worked with or not, the most effective mentor is one who has been where you are and is now where you want to be. To find a mentor, use basic networking approaches rather than trying to connect with impressive strangers. Being able to communicate with your mentor effectively is significant on your journey of progressing in your career.
Know what you want and GO AFTER IT. Nobody is going to hand it to you. I sound like a broken record, but… You have to work hard for the things you want in life. That means late nights, lost weekends, no sleep and so much more. I always say, if you love what you do, it’s not really considered work….is it? Do it with grace and style, and earn the respect you deserve in everything you do. You are the ultimate #GirlBoss.
With Love | Nikki xo