Navigating Networking Challenges: Women in Business Edition + it's not the Glass Ceiling

Dear women in business and their [our] allies,

It's no secret that the professional world often places unique demands on us. Balancing work, home life, and other duties can be a tough act. However, the art of networking and growing your professional circle doesn't have to fall by the wayside. Let's delve into strategies to network effectively despite our busy schedules and the added responsibilities that women often shoulder.

1. Prioritizing Connections

Networking is about quality, not quantity. Instead of trying to meet every professional contact under the sun, focus on connecting with those who truly align with your goals and values. Your time is precious; make it count!

2. Digital Networking

In today's tech-driven world, online networking has become a game-changer. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to build connections, join groups, and engage in virtual events from the comfort of your schedule.

3. Leveraging Unique Strengths

As women, our approach to networking can differ from men. Our natural abilities in empathy, active listening, and relationship-building can be superpowers in creating authentic connections.

4. The Power of Delegation

Don't be afraid to delegate tasks at home and at work. Empower others to take on some of the responsibilities that traditionally fall to women, allowing you to focus on your networking and career goals.

5. Making Time

Set aside dedicated time for networking. Even small, consistent efforts can yield meaningful results. Try scheduling coffee meetings, virtual meetups, or informational interviews to keep the momentum going.

6. Confidence is Key

Believe in your own worth and the value you bring to the table. Self-assurance not only helps in networking but also in asserting your presence in male-dominated industries.

7. Joining Women's Networks

Consider joining women-focused professional networks and organizations. These groups often provide a supportive and empowering environment where you can build valuable connections.

8. Embracing Virtual Networking Events

In a busy world, virtual events and webinars are a fantastic way to connect and learn without the need for travel. Use these opportunities to expand your knowledge and network.

Remember, networking isn't about competition; it's about collaboration and mutual support. By embracing our unique strengths and making time for networking, we can thrive in our careers and build an invaluable professional circle.

Women in the workplace: a new report by McKinsey

"Women are more ambitious than ever, and workplace flexibility is fueling them. Yet despite some hard-fought gains, women’s representation is not keeping pace."

The latest report from 麦肯锡 in partnership with LeanIn.Org., "Women in the Workplace 2023", presents a revelation challenging the traditional concept of a "glass ceiling." It suggests that the primary obstacle women face in reaching C-suite roles isn't a see-through barrier at the top but rather a "broken rung" that's much lower down the corporate ladder.

The data paints a concerning picture: men continue to outnumber women at the management level in a typical company, with 60% and 40% representation, respectively. This glaring gender imbalance early in the corporate hierarchy has profound implications. It directly affects the pool of women available for promotions to director-level positions and, consequently, thins out the numbers at each succeeding stage.

These findings underscore the critical need for organizations to address gender disparities at all levels, not just in the upper echelons. Fixing the "broken rung" and creating a more equitable foundation for women's advancement in the workplace is essential.

In the report's latest findings, a notable shift since 2015 is noticeable. The percentage of women reaching the C-suite has risen from 17% to a promising 28%. This progress extends to women in Vice President (VP) and Senior Vice President (SVP) roles, where we've observed encouraging growth as well.

However, a concerning trend emerges as we move down the corporate hierarchy. Women in director-level positions, often the stepping stone to the C-suite, are departing their roles at an escalating rate, surpassing the departures of their male counterparts. This trend raises crucial questions about the challenges women face on the path to top leadership positions and highlights the urgency for addressing the broken rung in our corporate structures.

Achieving true gender diversity and inclusion requires a holistic approach, focusing on leadership development, mentorship, and equal opportunities from the very start of one's career.

As we navigate the path toward a more equitable corporate landscape, it's vital to champion these findings and advocate for meaningful change. Let's work collectively to dismantle the broken rung and ensure women have the same opportunities to ascend the corporate ladder as their male counterparts.

"Until the broken rung is fixed, gender parity in senior leadership remains out of reach,” the report concluded.

This means a reassessment by HR and organizations is necessary to address barriers women encounter at the first levels of promotion to management.

Read the full report here:

The Brand is Female Conversation Series

The importance of community-building is at the heart of our new The Brand is Female | Femmes de marque Conversation Series. Every month, we bring you opportunities to network, meet new female founders and fellow women in business, and learn from industry veterans and startup leaders.

Our next event is in Montreal on October 25th at the beautiful H?tel Place d'Armes, Corner Collection - don't miss this chance to build your community and hear insights from powerhouse Marilyne Gagné , President and Founder of DERMAPURE . Breakfast will be served; the event starts at 8am.

Sign up here:

Podcast: Unlocking Success in the Competitive World of Fashion... Lessons on the Power of a Shirt from T. Line Co-Founders

In this week's episode, we're thrilled to host the dynamic Co-Founders of T.LINE , Britt Barkwell , a visionary in creative and marketing with an impressive track record at brands like Club Monaco and Holt Renfrew, and Alia Bissett , the former Director of Strategy at Holt Renfrew. Together, they bring over two decades of fashion expertise to the table.

?? Are you curious about thriving in the saturated and highly competitive world of fashion? Join us as we delve into their journey.

Britt and Alia spotted a gap in the market, a need for shirting-first brands that blend classic elegance with accessibility. Inspired by their vision, they founded T. Line, a collection of foundational wardrobe essentials that effortlessly elevate your style, all proudly made in Canada.

Discover what it takes to succeed in an industry that demands innovation, creativity, and a unique perspective. Britt and Alia share their insights and experiences that led to the birth of T. Line, setting a new standard in men’s-inspired shirting, thoughtfully designed for women.

"There is just something we all feel it, you know, when you put on that one piece of clothing that makes you feel fabulous, like it just, there is such a strong relationship between clothing and how you feel. And there is something about the shirt that really just makes you feel, I think like you can kind of conquer anything.?It sounds crazy, but I think it's true. You know, I think there is obviously that history of getting dressed for work and you put on your shirt and you go. But, I think, since sort of the mid 1900s or so, people were, a lot of these iconic women were reaching into their husband's closets and styling their shirts.?And I think there was just something so empowering about that. I don't know if it was because it was coming from a male's closet and we were, females were, you know, styling it and wearing it, but, since then, I feel like there is just, there's something very powerful about the shirt and I think because you can bring so much of your own personality into how you style it, you know, it becomes such a kind of cornerstone of somebody's wardrobe."

-Alia Bissett

?? Tune in to this episode to learn valuable lessons about carving your niche, pushing boundaries, and thriving in a competitive market. If you're passionate about fashion and business, this conversation with Brit and Alia is a must-listen. Don't miss out on their inspiring journey and the wisdom they bring to the world of business and fashion.

Tune in to the episode here:

Thank you for reading; stay tuned for our next edition, featuring inspiring success stories from women who've excelled in their respective fields.

Together, we rise! ??

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