Executive Women of Color Accelerator Program - Have you identified your allies?

Article 16- Executive Women of Color Accelerator Program - Have you identified your allys?

We now transition into the Co-Create phase. By now, you have reflected on your identity and the type of work and relationships that bring out the best in you. This allows you to find confidence effortless and a natural part of you, enabling you to stay positive and continue growing. We then shifted to you taking on more initiatives and actions, including:?

1) Creating your brand.?

2) Expanding your knowledge.

3) Advocating for your expertise.

4) Paying attention to your appearance.

In the Co-Create phase, we must consider who else can further expand our influence. Here, you need to contemplate the importance of having allies in your workplace. An ally takes meaningful actions to support individuals outside their group, even when it's not popular to do so. According to a recent study by Lean-In.org, 60% of white employees considered themselves allies to women of color, particularly Latinas and Blacks. However, only 16% of Latinas received actual sponsorships or support, and even fewer black women did. This reveals a significant gap between intent and action.

Allyship goes beyond private interactions like mentorship or serving as a confidant. It encompasses actions that amplify an individual's visibility, recognize their accomplishments in team settings, and create opportunities for growth through stretch projects that align with their abilities and strengths.

Drawing from my own personal experience prior to becoming a leadership coach, I realized that, while advancing in my career as a project manager, I could have been more strategic. I directed my talents towards leaders who advocated for me but neglected those who could genuinely nurture my growth and ultimately possess the power to be true allies, propelling me to an executive role. Consequently, I failed to identify the right sponsors who could highlight and validate my unique strengths, provide better opportunities, and expedite my career progression. I simply toiled diligently, worked hard, and climbed the career ladder steadfastly.

It's crucial to be strategic and identify individuals around you who can serve as allies. Additionally, take a moment to express gratitude to those who have already contributed significantly to your growth.

I am excited to announce that, alongside my new platform housing my framework, to which all my clients will have exclusive access, I will also be launching a digital course on Personal Branding later this year. This course aims to help you accelerate your progress in the Elevate phase!

Let’s NEC together.

Visit me at yourleadercoachnow.com to learn more of my programs for leaders. For more info, follow me on?Instagram?and?LinkedIn.