Women in the Workforce: Your Value is a Tennis Match

When Coco Gauff won the U.S. Open this year, she thanked Billie Jean King as she received her $3 million prize. That’s because 50 years ago, Billie, who had just climbed the same ranks, competed on the same court, won the same title as a man, and fought for equal prize money for both women and men. Equal value shared by both champions makes sense, but for women in most industries, this an ongoing struggle.?

These workplace disparities transcend experience level and title. While at the Forbes 30/50 Summit this year, I was surrounded by many of the world’s most successful and powerful women who shared that knowing their value—a concept espoused by Mika Brzezinski and others—has been essential for them to overcome workplace barriers and be seen for their value.??

This sense of value varies by age, race, and ethnicity, and for a woman, is often negatively influenced by scrutiny and stereotypes. Women, especially women of color, must be more prepared than men to succeed, even when their backgrounds align. At every level, women face a system that simultaneously capitalizes on their work while diminishing their value.??

During my own job search, I faced this very dilemma. I found my history, experience, and ideas to be coveted but less valued than my male counterparts. This came to a head when a nonprofit’s Board touted my vision for the organization as necessary, but when I was offered the CEO role, the compensation package did not reflect that value—it was far less than the exiting male CEO’s. I did not accept this offer because, at the end of the day, I know what I bring to the table and how I should be compensated for my value.??

I share this experience with other women who have been undervalued throughout their careers, including the women honored at the Forbes Summit. To get to the height of their careers, they had to learn to push back and stop second guessing their abilities. They know their value and have the confidence to demand proper recognition.?

I call it staying on your feet. As an avid tennis player, a foundational stance keeps me upright and moving forward when I am playing – no matter how hard the ball is coming at me. Just like Billie, I rely on that same foundational stance to remind me of my worth.???

Whether someone attempts to push you around or even knock you over, remember your foundation. The next time you face self-doubt, you will be ready to combat those doubts with an even stronger sense of value. And as we stay on our feet, we work to change the systems and behaviors that have kept us from moving forward.?