Though there has been significant progress concerning gender equality in the workforce, women are still lagging behind men when it comes to executive positions in business. According to career information at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Center for Women in Business, women are particularly underrepresented in the C-suite and on corporate boards. The center’s data finds that women currently hold just 4.2% of CEO positions in Fortune 1000 companies.
Sheryl Sandburg, chief operating officer at Facebook and a high profile woman in business, recently asked women to “lean in” to their careers. Her book of the same title has sparked conversations across the country on how to empower women to reach their full potential.
Follow these five career management tips to help you stand out and assert yourself as woman in business.
- Know your stuff
Before your next meeting, take some time to get up to speed about what will be discussed. Review the meeting agenda, if one is provided, or ask the individual who scheduled the meeting about what might be covered. Do background research on the topic so that you go into the meeting understanding the issue at hand and ready to discuss your thoughts.
- Share your ideas
Coming to the meeting prepared is a great step towards taking charge of your career, but it is most effective if you share those thoughts and ideas with the group. It can be overwhelming to speak up in front of so many people, however if you’ve done your research beforehand you can be confident that what you have to share is well informed. Not every idea will be a success but sharing shows initiative and, with the group’s collaboration, might even spark something bigger and better.
- Toot your own horn
Women often underplay their achievements at work for fear of sounding egotistical or self-centered. Men, on the other hand, see the value in sharing their successes because it presents them as capable and accomplished. Women should follow this lead and toot their own horn to share their wins with others. Try to also cheer others on and wish them well when they share successes with you to foster a supportive environment for all.
- Admit when you need help
It isn’t always easy to admit when you’re stumped or need help. Remember, asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather a sign that you are open to different ideas or perspectives. It also shows that you have realistic expectations for yourself. If you know you won’t be able to finish something by the deadline, asking for assistance can help progress the project so that it can be completed on time, which may benefit the whole team or company.
- Seek mentorship
Many successful women often offer anecdotes about how their mentors helped them in their professional career. Seek out someone in your field whom you admire, whose career you would like to emulate and ask if they would serve as a mentor to you. A mentor can offer advice, guidance and assistance from their experience in the field, which can be helpful as you learn the ropes.
If you are interested in a career in business, consider enrolling in the Bryant & Stratton College Online business administration degree. You can learn more by calling 1.888.447.3528 and speaking with an admissions representative.
