The greatest thing we can do to improve our workplace environment is to empower our women.
Women make up half of our workforce. It is incredibly important that everyone feels just as comfortable at work as anyone else. The idea of being a female boss often conjures up imagery of survival, toughness, and emotional detachment. Even today, women still face a number of stereotypes in the office. There are so many things that we can do to improve the atmosphere of the workplace. However, the greatest thing we can do to improve our workplace environment is to empower our women to support each other with warmth and camaraderie.
Speak confidently
Oftentimes the voices that get the most validity are those that present themselves, confidently regardless of the correctness of their argument. If you have an important viewpoint then speak it clearly and confidently. Be ready to accept pushback with calmness. This won’t come naturally at first, but perseverance will make it easier each time. You can even practice with other women you trust by debating back and forth and playing Devil’s Advocate. If another woman makes an argument you agree with, don’t hesitate to back her up and make additions to the conversation.
Let go of the female rivalry
The female rivalry is seen in every workplace environment but is also one of the greatest detractors from women’s strength and confidence. Women need to let go of female rivalry to empower our fellow women to succeed and seek out assistance and advice when needed. Let yourself be approachable to questions and opportunities for mentorship, especially if you are in a management position. We can help uplift other women along with ourselves. We cannot continue to view other women as competition if we want to improve the number of women in management and leadership positions. Every opportunity to share information or connect women with resources to improve themselves will help to reduce the disparity.
Photo by Flaunter.com on Unsplash
Be honest with yourself and others
It can be very uncomfortable for women to evaluate their mistakes and shortcomings. It is very easy to pretend we have everything under control so that we don’t look out of control. To make an environment where it is acceptable to honestly evaluate oneself and take positive criticism, we have to start with ourselves. Honestly talk about your mistakes and shortcomings as opportunities for improvement. Even if there isn’t a performance review, take time to speak with your leadership about how you can improve. Then go and implement any advice immediately. It is so important to provide honest and helpful advice when another woman asks for advice or help.
At The Lash Professional, women empowering other women is essential to the daily functions of the business. They are seeking to create self-motivated, confident women who are able to actualize their potential as professionals. To reach this goal, the company emphasizes letting go of female rivalry. They implement a place of support, warmth, and celebration of other women and their achievements.