Claiming Our Seat at the Table

The Journey to Leadership

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As host of the Women Physicians Lead podcast, I've had the privilege of engaging with countless inspiring women in medicine. My mission has always been to encourage, inspire, and support my fellow women physicians as we navigate the often-challenging path to leadership roles.

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On this International Women’s Day, the call to action is to imagine a gender-equal world, free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. One that is not only diverse and equitable but also inclusive. #InspireInclusion is this year’s theme and one shared by the bold, courageous life work of the late Shirley Chisholm.

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The Inspiration of Shirley Chisholm

Listen to the podcast episode

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Today, I want to share with you not just a message, but a movement that urges us to find our voice and claim our seat at the table.

Shirley Chisholm's powerful words, "If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring in a folding chair," have become a mantra for those striving to create their own space and be included in leadership conversations. Chisholm's legacy as the first African American woman elected to Congress and a presidential nominee is a testament to her role as a force for change and a champion for underrepresented communities. Her example is a beacon for us, women physicians, to follow as we claim our rightful places in leadership.

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Towards the end of her life, Shirley Chisholm said of these historic firsts that she wanted history to remember her not as the first black woman to have made a bid for the presidency of the United States, but as a black woman who lived in the 20th century and who dared to be herself. She wanted to be remembered as a catalyst for change in America. So even though she didn't win the Democratic nomination for president over the course of her 14 years in Congress, Shirley Chisholm was able to be a force for change and a champion to improve the quality of life for women and children, and for poor people and people of color.

She fought for immigrants. She fought for domestic workers. Like her mother, she fought for children as she knew they needed adequate childcare. She knew how important it was to have a seat at the table, to have a voice at the table where discussions happen and decisions are being made. She made a difference to the underrepresented.

She inspired inclusion.?

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Extending the Invitation

If you’ve ever felt like you're on the outskirts of the conversation, looking for a way in, then you know how isolating that can feel.

Here are three tips to help you carve out your place and ensure your voice is heard:

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1. Develop Your Unique Leadership Style: ?Leadership doesn't come in one shape or size. Your individuality is your superpower, and what you bring to the table is invaluable. Begin by reflecting on your values, how you solve problems, and how you connect with others. A leader who is authentic and self-aware inspires confidence and loyalty to those around them.

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2. Build Strategic Partnerships: Building meaningful relationships is at the core of networking. Building a community of people who share your vision and who are supportive during your leadership journey will help you succeed. Be proactive in looking for mentors and sponsors, both within and outside your specialty, who can provide guidance, advocate for you, and open doors to opportunities.

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3. Advocate for Yourself and Others: Don't be afraid to showcase your talents. Women often shy away from showcasing their achievements and making their career aspirations known to decision-makers. Don't assume your work speaks for itself. Elevate your voice and your work and champion the work of other female colleagues. This will foster a culture of inclusivity, and create a space of support that can propel everyone forward.

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Remember, making a seat for yourself at the table is both a personal journey and a collective effort. Every step you take towards leadership advances your career and paves the way for the women who will follow in your footsteps.

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Responsibility comes with that privilege once you have secured a seat at the table. We must use our positions to invite new voices and ideas, fostering a more inclusive and diverse leadership landscape. By doing so, we enrich the conversations and ensure that the path we've paved becomes wider for those who follow.

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Conclusion: Standing Up for Equality

In closing, my challenge to my fellow women physicians is to stand up for what's right, to fight for equality, and to bring our "folding chair" to the table if a seat is not readily available. Our goal is to turn that temporary seat into a permanent one where our voices are not just heard but respected and valued.

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Empowerment is at the core of my message. It's time for us, to step into our power, lead with conviction, and make a lasting impact in the world of healthcare.

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Do you find yourself struggling to balance the demanding nature of your profession, fearing it may be limiting your leadership aspirations?

Do you feel passed over for leadership roles and unsure how to showcase your greatness to connect with decision-makers?

Do you find organizational barriers getting in the way of your path of becoming a healthcare leader?

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What if you could have access to dedicated support and a step-by-step guide, to help you through the complexities of advancing your career and navigating the transition to medical leadership?

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Let's claim your seat at the table, together. If you are looking to be empowered and armed with the tools to be a leader in your industry, schedule a discovery call with me today at www.schedulewithdrlisa.com

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With warmth and solidarity,

Dr. Lisa Herbert

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P.S. Tune into the new, upcoming season of the "Women Physicians Lead" podcast for more empowering discussions and actionable advice. Let's make our voices heard!

Dr. Lisa Herbert is the Founder and CEO of Just The Right Balance LLC. Impacting the world through healthcare leadership is the journey for Dr. Herbert, whose mission is to help increase the number of diverse physicians in leadership roles by equipping them with the personal and professional development skills they need to succeed. A diverse leadership workforce creates the pipeline for future leaders and improves healthcare delivery to the communities they serve.

She has worked with over 20+ organizations and 500 healthcare professionals who were ready to take the steps to develop a healthcare workforce that will create lasting change. Together, I can help you get clear on a strategy to build, develop, and support physician leaders.