SEEING HER: Why Acknowledging Women Leaders is Crucial for Business Success

During a recent women's professional development workshop, I witnessed something eye-opening. As participants reflected on their engagement levels at work, their responses echoed the latest McKinsey: Women in the Workplace report, but it was the deeper discussions that truly resonated with me.

Time and again, women shared stories of dedicating their energy to training incoming male employees, only to find themselves overlooked for promotions and advancement. These talented individuals expressed feelings of being unseen and undervalued, which only deepened their disenchantment with their circumstances. It was disheartening to hear how eager they were to contribute and be acknowledged, yet their experiences told a different story.

This experience underscores a critical reality: a sense of belonging and recognition is vital for women in leadership roles. When these needs go unmet, disengagement can follow—a situation that can have real consequences for organizations. It’s essential for businesses to take a hard look at how they appreciate and support their female leaders.

What if we not only opened up honest conversations about the unique challenges women leaders face but also took bold steps as a call to action? This goes beyond creating KPIs and targets; it’s about instilling healthy behavioral changes within organizations. We must hold ourselves accountable for the actions that foster positive engagement outcomes. Data already shows that engaged women drive increased profitability, innovation, and a stronger company culture. Ignoring this isn’t just detrimental; it’s a missed opportunity.

We all want to thrive in our work environments. By being mindful of these dynamics, we can create a more supportive atmosphere for our female leaders. After all, when women feel valued and supported, it benefits not just them but the overall health of our organizations as well.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this!