Hear from Women in Business Leader- Gauri Das, SVP and Head-HR at India Factoring and Finance Solutions

Q1. What is your success story and what advice do you have for aspiring women leaders?

Gauri: I started my journey from a small village in Madhya Pradesh. I studied in vernacular medium and the school had only one classroom where students from all standards would sit together. As a child I had introverted disposition. That coupled with lack of personality development opportunities led to I entering a shell and not having any confidence. From there to today when I am a 2times TEDx speaker, Top 5 women in HR, ET Young HR Leader, LinkedIn blue badge holder, I have strongly believed in power of possibilities. My advice to women leaders are

1.?????? Believe in yourself and your capabilities

2.?????? Never think that any goal is unachievable

3.?????? Despite all your responsibilities, make time for self development? and networking both within and outside the organization?

Q2. What are your specific achievements or milestones that you are particularly proud of?

Gauri: I am truly grateful for my journey and would like to spread the message that your past does not define your future.

I started from humble beginnings in a small village with limited educational resources. Despite the challenges of studying in a vernacular medium and in a single classroom environment, I persevered. Though I lacked confidence, didn’t know English initially, I didn't let that hold me back. Instead, I actively sought opportunities for self-improvement and growth. My life is a continuous learning journey.

I am proud that I am able to pay it forward through various initiatives for students professionals and women. I am founder of Leaning circle Leaders Lifting Leaders and Navi Wombai Circle and through these initiatives I am trying to support women achieve their professional goals.

Q3. What do you think are the success factors for a successful women leadership programme?

Gauri: I think following factors are critical:

Customized Learning: program should ?fit the specific needs and challenges that women face in leadership roles. This might include things like dealing with biases or balancing work and personal life.

Strong Role Models and Mentors: Connect ?women in the program with successful female leaders who can give them advice and support based on their own experiences.

Supportive Community: Create a friendly and inclusive environment where women feel comfortable sharing their experiences and helping each other out.

Sponsorship from the Top: Get support from the higher-ups in the company to show that they're serious about helping women succeed in leadership roles. This support can help with getting resources and making changes in the company culture.

Clear Goals and Checking Progress: Set clear goals for what the program wants to achieve, like getting more women into leadership positions. Then, keep track of how things are going and hold everyone involved accountable for making progress.

About the Women Leadership Development Program: https://www.peoplebusiness.org/women-in-businss-leadership.html

Our program aims to empower and nurture the leadership skills of women professionals over a transformative 5-month journey. Participants will be drawn from various sectors, creating a rich and dynamic learning environment that fosters cross-sectoral collaboration and learning.