Women Lifting Women – Don’t do it “Just Because”
Jackie Peer
VP Conferences & Meetings, IEEE PES | People-First Approach | Connector of the Dots | Strategic Thinker
Just because you are a female doesn’t mean I’ve got your back. Absolutely and unapologetically this is true. Now, I am all about supporting and lifting up other women, but I refuse to rubber stamp what she is doing or saying, “just because.”
I’ve spent my career in a male-dominated industry – not unique to other ladies who work in tech or other notable industries. I knew what I was getting into when I chose my field, but I’ve always hoped there would be a day when more women would join the ranks and the quest for gender equality was something of the past.
Today there are countless movements advocating gender equality – I support several of them and what they stand for, including the notion that women should support other women. But I won’t do this blindly. Just because she’s part of the woman tribe doesn’t mean she gets my endorsement.
When I go to bat for her, it’s because she has demonstrated worthiness. She works hard. Her performance is top-notch. She produces quality work. She demonstrates values and character. She adds value. I believe in her message. She earned it. She’s bad-ass. You get the picture. It’s no different than providing a reference or letter of recommendation – and I’ll only do this if I am familiar with her work, character and accomplishments. After all, recommending someone who doesn’t deserve it (or if you really don’t know) is potentially putting your reputation on the line.
Replace “her” and “she” with “his” and “he” – the same holds true in my book regardless of gender.
Often, I’m in her corner, but not blindly. When I advocate, I will do so with passion and principle, because I believe in her.
As a coach and mentor, I give the same advice to those just starting off in their careers – you are not entitled to anything – you must earn it and prove yourself.
I will lift other women up, support and cheer them on – I just won’t do so “just because.”
#WomenLiftingWomen #GenderEquality #WomenSupportingWomen #Performance #DiversityAndInclusion #DandI #GenderDiversity
Engineering Leader @ Google | Data Center Advanced Technology Innovation
5 年Excellent thoughts Jackie! I am all for supporting women and your thoughts about the “no free card” is the way to go.
Global Accounts Manager - Transportation Electrification at SEL
5 年Great article!
As a strategic leader and visionary, I use my strong business acumen to achieve and exceed critical business objectives.
5 年Great position Jackie Peer! I am a huge advocate for the inclusion of women and minorities? in various professions; especially in engineering and related industries. However my passion for greater inclusion is not free card for all just because you are female or a minority; you certainly must have the drive, experience and zeal to be equally productive and valuable in your role. I have always regarded Jackie Peer?as someone I admired. Not because she was a female (first), but because of her professionalism, expertise, and commanding presence (especially within a male-dominated world). She FIRST earned my respect and immediately I became a supporter and fan (especially as she navigated her way through various growth opportunities). Yes, more women and minorities are needed in various roles, professions, and industries. Such diversity will lead to greater success (when properly developed) for individuals, our communities, markets, and organizations. However, we cannot haphazardly overlook the essential qualities one must possess.