What has been the most challenging moment you have faced in your journey as a leader?
It was a struggle to leave full-time work for 3.5 years to focus on my family. When my son was 14, he expressed his need for me to be more available. My daughters were 5 and 11 at the time. It was no easy decision, but it was important. I also gave back to my community by serving as president of two boards.
Was there ever a moment where your confidence in your leadership was shaken?
It’s never been an issue of confidence, but rather the evolution of my style. People are so different, and when you have a team, it’s like a jigsaw puzzle that you must figure out. My style evolution has been a big part of my growth as a leader.
What more can be done to ensure that leadership skills are being cultivated in young girls?
Often, girls are given tactical opportunities that don’t require them to be creative or lead. That doesn’t help them learn. They are missing the chance to be a part of the decision on how to do something. Girls need to be given these opportunities from their earliest interactions.
What advice do you have for women who are interested in leadership positions at their companies?
You can’t expect someone to represent your own interests, or to understand your goals without voicing them. Be thoughtful but clear about your ambitions, and assume nothing. What you ask for is just as important as how you ask for it. Outwardly expressing your interest in more visible and challenging assignments will change your trajectory.
What can be done to bring more women onto corporate and nonprofit boards to create more opportunities for leadership for women?
Women are uniquely bad at verbally expressing their accomplishments. To achieve these positions, they must express their interest, tell people, and highlight their skills. Simply saying ‘I’m good at this,’ is different than articulating what you have accomplished.