Have you ever walked into a room full of boys and felt like you don’t belong? As a woman in a male-dominated industry, it can be daunting to position yourself as a leader without feeling like a charity case. Walking into a room full of boys can be intimidating, but it’s important to remember that you belong there just as much as anyone else. I always tell myself, “Neo, you have the skills, knowledge, and experience to excel in any room no matter who is present!” The truth is that’s easier said than done. I have put together simple go-to tips on how women can position themselves in leadership without feeling like they’re being given special treatment.

1. Believe in Yourself

One of the greatest books I have read is titled How to Self Yourself by Joe Girard and the first chapter talks about selling yourself to yourself! Treating yourself like a product you are about to launch can help you in positioning yourself as a leader. You must silence the inner negative voices and stop watering the weeds of insecurity.  You have the skills and knowledge to succeed, don’t give in to insecurities. Deeply but humbly believe in yourself. Confidence is key when it comes to leadership, so make sure you’re projecting that confidence in everything you do.

2. Have a Mentor

Having a mentor can be incredibly helpful when it comes to positioning yourself as a female leader. A mentor is not just a fellow professional with a listening ear but someone who has experience in your industry and can offer guidance and support as you navigate your career. A mentor can help you build your skills, network, and confidence, all of which are essential for leadership.

3. Build Your Network

My preferred way of unwinding is a good movie based on true events but the journalist in me jumps at the opportunity of industrial networking. Building relationships with others in your industry can help you learn about new opportunities, gain valuable insights, and establish yourself as a leader.
Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with others in your field on social media.

4. Speak Up

Most organisations breed a culture in which females are afraid to speak up and share their opinions. Ideas are a matter of perspectives. When you speak up you demonstrate that your perspective is valuable, and you want others to appreciate what you have to say.

5. Take on Leadership Roles

Do not allow fear of failure to dissuade you from taking on leadership roles. Volunteer for projects, lead teams, and take on responsibilities that showcase your skills and abilities. When you take on these roles, you nurture your leadership potential and demonstrate to your own leaders that you’re ready for more.


6. Be a Team Player

Leadership isn’t just about being in charge -it’s also about being a reliable team player. Female leaders are usually battling with social constructs and stereotypes which end up affecting their willingness to work collaboratively with others. Between being too vulnerable and being cocky find the value of your team’s input and ideas. Respect your team and be a loyal leader for you to earn the respect and trust that is vital to your success.

 
7. Learn from Failure

I have taught myself never to regret but just to carry the lessons forward. Wrong moves can seldom be undone yet they can be prevented if learnt from. No leader is perfect- male or female! When you experience failure, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Reflect on what went wrong and think about how you can do better next time. When you commit to learning from failure you grow.

8. Support Other Women

Finally, we reap what we sow therefore, remember that supporting other women is essential for positioning yourself as a leader. Lift up other women in your industry, mentor those who are just starting out, and advocate for gender equality in the workplace. When you support other women, you sow a more inclusive and equitable workplace.