You've heard the characterizations - they're selfish, too bitchy, and uninterested in helping other women. But does this perception equal reality?
Not according to Professor Linda Carli, co-author of the book "Through the Labyrinth", who states "women are often blamed for other women's lack of success, even though women, on average, are more helpful then men." And shouldn't we admire women who have navigated their way to success?
So why do they get this bum rap?
Because of differences in perceptions about the struggle - the ease or difficulty that each woman experiences in navigating the labyrinth to higher positions. Successful women often tell me that they've never experienced a glass ceiling. That they've always found new opportunities at the right time. For these women, achieving success has been seamless. They rely on their talent, to which they attribute 100% of their success. Although, you still have to wonder if they were objective, what part luck, contacts and mentoring really had in their careers.
They hear other women complain and say "what's the problem? I did it; so can you." But if that really was the case, why are they often the only woman in executive meetings? Is it because other women don't work hard enough or want it? I doubt it. Maybe there really are fewer opportunities, and other women who have tried just couldn't get there.
Those who haven't made it remain frustrated and feel like the women at the top don't care. Instead of learning and leveraging what's made others successful, they feel they've hit a brick wall, stop trying and leave responsibility for their success to others. And of course business isn't fair, just as life isn't fair. So, if you're aspiring to higher positions you have two choices - wait until it gets better in 5, 10 or 20 years or figure out how to push your way through.
For those still struggling - learn from the successes and failures of others. Adapt what works to your own style and skills to keep navigating through your challenges. You've done it before to get where you are, so do it again.
For those women at the top - continue to be the role models that prove to others that women can make it. But honestly analyze why you were successful and pass these insights onto others. Remember too, you'll probably hit your own obstacles some day. Did you not get that corporate board, foundation or CEO position because you didn't try hard enough or because there are still limitations for women? You may be navigating your next labyrinth before you know it.
In fact, why don't we learn from each other? Understanding that both sides are right and wrong, taking both lessons to help each woman achieve their own goals.
Note: This club was started because of the comment "I don't really have any women in business who are my friends."
It can be lonely and isolating in a senior role - so why go it alone if you don't have to? Wouldn't honest feedback, support and new ideas from your peers help you avoid mistakes and get better results? We never focus on complaining - only helping each other overcome challenges so that everyone can all achieve their goals and aspirations.
Let us know if we can help you or the people that work for you navigate through their own labyrinths. --> ceowomensclub.ladyrich.info
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