Timid, self-centered, alone: how women can overcome false stereotypes in the workplace
Only about 15% of executive officers in America are women. Obviously, this doesn’t mean that women don’t have what it takes to lead a company or hold high leadership roles. Yet the number of women in leadership roles is lacking. There are many factors that keep women from attaining the career and job position they want, and timidness may be one of them. Consider these tips to give yourself the boost you need to achieve your goals and break the glass ceiling:
1. Promote your work
Women often fear coming off as self-obsessed when they talk about their achievements, more so than men. In many ways, society does tend to view men who brag about their success more favorably than women who do so. But one of the best ways of moving up in your company and career is to make your accomplishments known. To avoid negative reactions, it’s key to focus on promoting your work, not yourself. Instead of emphasizing your successes, awards, and degrees, talk about projects and work you did, and how they benefited your company as a whole. This way, you show that your work provides valuable contributions without looking like you’re bragging about yourself.
2. Find a strong network
Because men have dominated many fields for so long, they tend to have easier access to strong professional networks. Clubs, fraternities, and men’s organizations often provide them a strong network of professionals that they can reach out to for career help. As a woman, it may be more difficult to find this network, but it can certainly be done. Think outside the box, and reach out to old professors, college alumni, members of organizations you volunteer with, and other women in your field.
3. Don’t wait for things to come to you
Even if you do a great job of promoting yourself, building your network, and doing overall excellent work, you still may not simply be given the job or promotion that you want. Women sometimes tend to do everything right, but then back off and wait for their efforts to be recognized. If you want a promotion, speak to your supervisor about it, and ask how you can improve your performance. If you’re really getting nowhere, maybe it’s time to look at similar companies that have openings you are interested in, and go where your skills will be recognized.
