Leading in a Man's World

Having had a successful career in IT, I know how challenging it can be for a woman to move up the ranks and become an effective leader in what is still (unfortunately) a male-dominated industry.? I like to think I am one of many women leaders who have broken into these spaces and excelled, trailblazing a path for others to follow. So how do you, as a woman leader, successfully navigate male-dominated industries, foster inclusivity, and drive your career forward?

It’s about developing:

Your Confidence…

One of the biggest challenges you’re likely to face in a male-dominated environment is self-doubt, often exacerbated by the banter and subtle — or not so subtle — discrimination you face. Imposter syndrome is something all of us experience, regardless of gender or situation. For a woman leader in tech, finance, construction or other traditionally male industries, cultivating self-confidence is essential.?

Focus on your achievements; set clear goals; acknowledge your strengths. Keep a record of your successes, however big or small they may be. I write mine on pieces of pastel paper and keep them in a beautiful bowl. I read one at the start of every day to remind myself of my capabilities and achievements. It’s a great way to counteract self-doubt.

Your Resilience…

It can be really hard to deal with the banter, the overt or subtle discrimination and biased feed back you get. Even more frustrating to find yourself excluded from critical conversations that matter.? That’s why it’s so important to develop your resilience, so that you don’t allow your emotional reaction to these negative experiences to hold you back or derail your progress.?

Develop your emotional intelligence so that you can better manage your reactions and adapt to such situations. Find mentors and peer groups to support you; learn from others who have dealt with similar experiences.

Your Unique Perspective..

As the ‘odd one out’, you bring fresh perspectives and diversity to your organisation. Celebrate this, as diversity in leadership often leads to more creative and effective solutions. You see things differently from you male counterparts. Use this to your advantage.

Clearly share your views; speak up in meetings with confidence, offering a different perspective. Your organisation will benefit from diverse thinking and your particular viewpoint can help drive innovation and success.

Your Mentors & Allies…

No one rises to the top alone. In male-dominated industries, it’s essential that you seek out mentors and sponsors — both male and female — who can offer guidance, open doors and provide candid feedback. ?

Don’t be afraid to ask senior leaders to mentor you. Look for people whose leadership style you admire — regardless of gender.? In my own experience, I found that a male leader I respected and who respected me, was the ideal mentor or sponsor.

Your Professional Network…

You may well find yourself confronted by the proverbial ‘Old Boys’ Club’, where key decisions are made informally in spaces where women are not always present — possibly not even permitted.? You need to get around this by actively building your own professional network, within and outside your organisation.

Make the most of industry conferences, professional associations and participate in networking events to build relationships. You need a broad career network to increase your visibility and opportunities.?

Your Boundaries…

You may feel, as I did, that you need to work harder to prove yourself in a male-dominated work environment.? And as you progress in your leadership journey, you find yourself pressured to work long hours, take on additional responsibilities and… all that hard work, whilst important, can lead to burnout. To ensure your long term success, make sure you set — and keep — boundaries and advocate for work-life balance.?

Learn to say no. Prioritise tasks that align with your career goals and delegate as much of the rest as possible.?

Gender Bias…

However subtle or blatant, gender bias does need to be addressed. By ignoring it, you perpetuate inequality in the work place. Whenever you encounter base — in pay, promotion, or simply day-to-day interactions, it’s important that you address it tactfully and assertively.

Data are important. Use it to make your case, and do so firmly yet respectfully.? For a negation on pay, bring facts and figures to the discussion: your contributions; industry standard pay grades for your role, etc.

Your Development…

The business world is constantly changing; to stay relevant you’ll need to continuously improve your skills, stay up to date on industry trends and keep flexible. The more knowledge you have, the more confident you’ll feel in leading.

Your Sisters…

One of the most impactful ways to navigate a traditionally male environment is by uplifting other women. As you advocate for other women, you create a more inclusive workplace and help shift the industry culture towards equality.

Mentor younger women in your field. Promote a culture of inclusion by advocating for more women in leadership positions.

Your Successes…

Celebrate your successes. It’s likely as a woman leader in a male-oriented industry you face higher levels of scrutiny and pressure. Acknowledge how far you come. Publicly share your achievements and accomplishments wherever appropriate.? Own your value. Make sure your work gets the recognition it deserves.?

Remember, it can be challenging to be a woman leader in a male-dominated industry. It’s also one of the most rewarding roles you can take on. By building your confidence and a strong support system, by embracing your unique strengths and perspective, you can and will thrive, whatever the industry. And remember, too, as you grow your career and advocate for other women, you pave the way for future generations of women leaders. Definitely worthwhile.

Almira

And if you'd like to learn how to set effective boundaries, simply and easily, book a call. Link under my profile.