Your Workplace:  Westaff's monthly e-newsletter about workplace trends

 
 

How to Get Ahead in a Skirt

Women sometimes approach success in the business world differently than men. While women in business have a lot to offer in the upper echelons of power, given typical cultural corporate politics, they can sometimes undermine themselves by failing to do the required networking or avoiding the limelight. Yet self-sabotage is the last thing a talented woman needs in her quest for a bigger title, responsibility and visibility.

Here's some advice from experts from around the country to help a woman get ahead whatever her goal - whether it's in a spot in middle management or a place in the board room.

  • Define success your way: "Everyone has a different true north on their personal compass," said Lynn Utter, chief strategy officer for Coors Brewing Company, according to an article published by the McCombs School of Business.

  • Don't expect to solve your entire career life at one time: "With each step, you figure it out," Utter added.

  • When you're up for a promotion, don't give in too quickly when negotiating for yourself. Look at it as an opportunity to create an impression so don't come across as unprepared or intimidated. Show that you can negotiate because that skill is important for the company.

  • Use your natural gifts as a communicator and get to know people who can help with your current job or with your career in general by helping fill you in on information or building your expertise.

  • Go to lunch more and develop relationships with coworkers that can help you back in the office.

  • Show off your management skills. Your expertise is important, but according to a recent study from Catalyst, an organization in New York City that researches issues related to women and careers, it's not as important as you might think. Sixty-three percent of CEOs want to see their up-and-comers successfully managing others, but only 17% of them think that having recognized expertise is a key to advancement.

  • Male mentors and fathers can offer valuable advice and support, but consider including senior women as mentors as well. They may have a better idea of the kind of issues you face.

 

 
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