by Christena Garduno, chief executive officer of Media Culture
At the beginning of 2023, for the first time in history, women ran more than 10% of the businesses on the Fortune 500 list. Women are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, proving their worth as capable and effective leaders.
If you aspire to be a great female leader, there are key qualities and strategies that will enhance your leadership abilities and make a lasting impact.
Promote Self-Confidence.
Cultivating self-confidence will allow your team members to shine. As your team witnesses you leading confidently, they will be encouraged to perform confidently as well. Make it a point to give positive feedback, letting your team members know why you feel they are an asset to your company. Be sure to call out the specific strengths they provide and work with them to fine tune their skills.
By taking time to mentor and acknowledging team members’ strengths, female leaders can help improve self-esteem and encourage employees to perform at their highest level.
Learn From Failures and Work with a Mentor.
Leadership is not without its challenges and setbacks. It is crucial to embrace resilience and view failures as opportunities for growth and learning. As a female leader, you may encounter many obstacles or biases, but don’t let them discourage you! Use setbacks as motivation to push forward and demonstrate your capabilities. Building a strong network of mentors and supporters is vital for any aspiring leader, regardless of gender. It is also important to connect with professional organizations and networks that foster women’s leadership, as they can provide valuable resources and opportunities for growth.
Look for individuals who can provide guidance, advice and support as you navigate your leadership journey. Seek out both male and female mentors who can offer different perspectives and insights.
Build a Diverse and Inclusive Team.
By fostering a supportive environment, you empower your team to thrive both personally and professionally. As a leader, actively seek out individuals from different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. Encourage and empower them to contribute their unique ideas and viewpoints. By fostering diversity and inclusion, you not only create a more innovative and creative team but also demonstrate your commitment to fairness and equality. Lead by example, demonstrating that success can be achieved without sacrificing happiness and personal fulfillment.
Commit to a Lifetime of Learning.
Leadership is a journey of continuous growth and learning. Stay curious and seek opportunities for self-improvement. Fostering a mindset of adaptability and embracing change is essential for effective leadership. In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, staying stagnant is not an option. Embrace new technologies and innovative practices to remain at the forefront of your field. Surround yourself with a diverse network of professionals who challenge your perspectives and offer valuable insights. Actively engage in thought-provoking discussions and seek feedback from your team and peers.
The rise in female leaders is an exciting trend that brings fresh perspectives and approaches to the world of business. Remember, true growth as a leader comes from embracing discomfort and continuously pushing the boundaries of your knowledge and abilities. By remaining open-minded and committed to self-improvement, you will not only inspire those around you but also position yourself as a dynamic and influential leader in your industry.
Christena Garduno is an inspirational female entrepreneur and leader highly recognized for her success, determination and creativity throughout all walks of life. As a leading businesswoman and chief executive officer of Media Culture, Christena strives to motivate young, female professionals by encouraging them to use their own experiences as a guide in achieving their goals.
