“Leadership is not a person or a position.
It is a complex moral relationship between people based on trust, obligation, commitment, emotion, and a shared vision of the good.”– Joanne Ciulla.
Are you tired of seeing little to no female representation in leadership positions?
Have you heard the saying, “Women are natural-born leaders,” yet still notice a significant gap between men and women in leadership roles?
You’re not alone.
The business world is full of strong women who have shown up and done the work, from leading nations to standing up for human rights and running some of the world’s most influential organizations. We see women continuing to shape our world through their leadership.
Despite this success, there remains a significant disparity. As of 2023, women held only 8.2% of CEO positions in Fortune 500 companies. Although the global labor force participation rate for women is around 47%, forming the backbone of industries worldwide, the 2020 Grant Thornton International Business report that women represent about 28% of senior management positions globally.
While issues like gender stereotypes, work-life balance challenges, and a lack of mentorship, training, and sponsorship are definite barriers, the question remains: What can we, as women, do to be seen as effective leaders?
This Week’s Mastery Tip:
Don’t wait for an invitation to claim your seat at the boardroom table –
create your seat!
Here is what I mean.
According to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2022/2023 Report, women represented about 35% of individuals engaged in entrepreneurial activities globally. These statistics demonstrate women’s ability to lead and excel.
Studies also consistently show that women excel once they step into leadership roles. Traits like empathy, communication, and active listening serve women exceptionally well in management and leadership.
I am not saying you must become an entrepreneur; instead, I am inviting you to think like one and lead where you stand. Here are three reasons that inspired me to step up and lead.
Leadership is a Decision, Not a Position
Leadership starts with a decision. It’s not about waiting for a title or a promotion; it’s about choosing to lead where you are. Like becoming an entrepreneur, deciding to lead is an act of courage and conviction. Whether managing a team, a project, or a career, leadership is about taking initiative and inspiring those around you. Don’t wait for someone to anoint you as a leader. Make the decision today to lead from where you are.
Be Ready: The First Person You Must Lead is Yourself.
Effective leadership begins with self-leadership. Model personal mastery and continually prepare yourself for the next opportunity. Invest in your growth through education, mentorship, and self-reflection. Develop the skills and mindset needed to excel in the role you aspire to. When the opportunity arises, you’ll be ready and most likely noticed. Remember, leadership is not just about managing others; it’s about mastering yourself.
Know Your Value and Make Your Desire for a Position Known
Understand your worth and communicate your ambitions. Too often, women undervalue their contributions and hesitate to express their career aspirations. Know your value, and don’t be afraid to make it known. Speak up about your goals and let your organization know you’re ready for more responsibility. By owning your value and expressing your desire for advancement, you position yourself as a proactive, confident leader.
The gap between men and women in leadership roles is narrowing, but progress can be slow. As women, we must decide to lead, prepare ourselves, and make our ambitions known. By doing so, we pave the way for ourselves and the women who will follow in our footsteps.
Claim your seat at the table. The time to lead is now and right where you stand.
If you want to learn more about how your mindset and beliefs about power may impact your leadership and bottom line, click here to access your Free copy of The Mindset Mastery Playbook.