MARCH 8 was International Women’s Day. All around the globe events were held in celebration of women. These celebrations will continue throughout the month of March.
Not wanting to be out-beaten, I will contribute to the celebrations by focusing on women this week.
Women are transforming the face of business and society, moving into leadership roles as business-owners and executives.
What are the characteristics that set successful women business leaders apart? Research suggests that some of the characteristics listed below are key for women business leaders to maximise success in the 21st Century.
Define success in your own terms It is so easy to let others define your goals; particularly in the case of well-intentioned friends, family, mentors and business associates. Successful women leaders understand that true accomplishment begins with knowing who you are, what your strengths are and what you really want out of life.
Be values-based The most successful women know their values and their behaviour is consistent with these standards. Be true to your values.
Balance and understand your own needs Good leaders understand the importance of balancing their lives and taking care of themselves. Many times women in general have a belief that selfcare is selfish. Well, breaking news — it is not! Balance is vital to your survival.
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A nurturing spirit Women are said to be nurturers. Good female leaders use this to their advantage. Be a nurturer, having a sense of being fair and just, and use of “our” women’s intuition. These are some of our strongest traits as women.
Invest in your personal and professional growth Throughout human history, it has never been easier for women to obtain education. Colleges offer programmes in a variety of subjects.
Scholarships and career advancement programmes aimed at women help to ensure future women leaders have the opportunity to obtain an education. Women in leadership are always in an evolving state. They understand that personal and professional growth is a crucial part of life.
They are continuously learning, strive for perfection, balancing their mind, body and spirit, while juggling their household chores and family obligations and professional commitments. In addition, they seek partnerships and collaboration with like-minded and professionally-viable people.
Give Back Women in leadership believe in the concept of”‘Pay it Forward”. They have a tremendous desire to give back to others. It is an essential element of being an outstanding leader.
“Every woman should believe in herself and her instincts, dream big dreams, and have the knowledge and tools to make her dreams a reality.
“In addition, women leaders with multi-million dollar businesses combine their unique feminine leadership with sound business acumen to achieve their highest aspirations.” — Laura Henderson and Sharon Hadary authors of the book How Women Lead: 8 Essential Strategies Successful Women Know.
