The Power of a “Tribe”: Why Women Need a Strong Support System to Thrive in the Workplace

I can attest to how important it is to have a tribe - in fact, I would have to attribute so much of my success to mine. When I say tribe, I don’t mean network - I believe your tribe are people who understand you on a more personal level, support you, and help you navigate career challenges, and everyday life. In essence, you have a common bond and mutual desire to see each other thrive - and you’re intentional in your efforts to make sure that desire is evident in your relationship with one another.?

Our tribe can consist of family, neighbors, community, professional contacts - regardless of who it involves, develop yours! It may take time, and you may find your tribe in unlikely people or unexpected places, but their value is priceless.??

The Importance of Having a Tribe

Many of us have heard the phrase "it takes a village to raise a child," but the same can be said for building a successful career. Having a group of people who support and believe in you can make all the difference.?

In fact, in the 2022 Women’s Workplace Report, 47% of women reported that friends and family helped them increase their workplace confidence. It’s no surprise, people we consider close - our tribe - often see things in us that we don’t see in ourselves. They can help us identify opportunities for growth and push us to take risks that we might not have considered on our own.

Having a strong support system can also help us overcome obstacles, provide fresh perspectives, be a sounding board for ideas, provide guidance and advice, and help navigate difficult workplace situations.?

How to Build Your Tribe

Building a tribe takes time and effort, but it's worth it. Start by identifying people in your workplace or community who have skills or qualities that you admire and respect. Consider reaching out to them to grab coffee or lunch to get to know them better.?

Don't be afraid to reach out to people outside of your company as well. I have found my tribe at industry events, conferences, and through mutual acquaintances - so take time to network to meet new people.?

Again, a tribe is different from a network (in my opinion), so once you’ve identified people who you admire or respect, take it one step further - is there a mutual respect, interest, or common? bond? I often look for people who may have shared values, or also show an interest and respect for me beyond my accomplishments. Why? Because if it’s not mutual it will be tough to keep the connection - and if it’s difficult to keep the connection, they really aren’t part of your tribe. Perhaps they are part of your network, and can be engaged when you have a need, but they’re not part of your tribe.?

Does this mean that your tribe should consist of people just like you? No, it is important that your tribe brings different perspectives and experiences to the table so you can all grow. Embrace a diversity of people who have different backgrounds, skill sets, and viewpoints.?

How to Make the Most Out of Your Tribe

Once you've built your tribe, it's important to nurture those relationships. This means checking in with your tribe regularly, offering your support, and celebrating their successes. Schedule check-ins (a text chat group works great for me and my tribe!), and make time for in-person meetings or social events. Stay up to date on what’s happening in their lives and careers, and offer support and encouragement when needed.

Don't be afraid to be vulnerable with your trusted friends as well. Share your challenges and ask for their advice, guidance, and support. This will help to build trust and deepen your relationships.? The key is that you don’t have to pretend to be ok, you can share those moments when you’re not, knowing that your tribe will be there.?

Here’s four other ways I believe you can develop a tribe that thrives:?

• Share your goals: This may sound obvious but it’s so easy to downplay what you’re working on, or the goals you have. Tell your tribe - they may be able to help.??
• Be a resource for your tribe: Just as you rely on your tribe for support, be sure to offer your own support and expertise. Be generous with your time, knowledge, and resources. By giving back, you can strengthen your relationships and build a stronger, more supportive tribe.?
• Don't be afraid to ask for help: No superwoman capes, please. Your tribe is there to support you, so don't be afraid to ask them for help when you need it. This could be anything from asking for advice on a project to asking for a referral for a job. I remember when I wrote my first book, You’re Absolutely Worth It, my tribe showed up in such incredible ways to promote the book, offer their support, and it was all because I simply asked for help!?
• Be open to feedback: You trust your tribe, and they can provide you with valuable feedback that can help you grow and develop in your career. Be open to receiving their feedback and be willing to make changes based on their assessments.

Having a tribe is essential to you achieving success in the workplace - and personally. Take time to build and nurture those relationships and make the most out of your supportive group and achieve your goals.?

Thanks for reading this article! I'm Velera Wilson, a global speaker, author, and consultant on a mission to help women own their worth and increase workplace confidence so they advance their careers and thrive as leaders. Submit speaking inquiries, get a copy of my book, You're Absolutely Worth It, Women’s Workplace Confidence report, or connect with me on Twitter.