Beyond the Glass Ceiling: Strategies for Female Leaders

Updated: Nov 3

A female leader leading a conversation with an engaged group of women

In 2024, women still earn less than men. On average, we make only $0.83 for every dollar earned by our male counterparts. While progress has been made by strong women and allies, the metaphorical “glass ceiling” remains a major obstacle for many women.

Here are some of the most successful strategies used by incredible female leaders to shatter that ceiling - and bring others above it along with them.

Build A Strong #Network

It's like making friends! Building a network can sound intimidating, but it’s simply creating a circle of inspiring, motivating, and supportive people who want each other to succeed.

Look around: Start there. The people you surround yourself with every day are already an incredible network to tap into.
Look beyond: Joining social or professional groups, attending industry events, and actively seeking mentorship are some of the most effective ways to grow your network.
Look ahead: Find opportunities to coach and mentor others.

Define Your #Leadership Style

Consider: Consider your strengths, hobbies, and passions. What do they say about you as a person and as a leader?
Connect: Build strong relationships with your team and other leaders. Embed compassion, empathy, and understanding into your approach.
Communicate: Communicate who you are in your actions and words. Enhance your written and verbal communication skills to advocate for yourself and those you lead.

Develop a #Growth Mindset

Reflect: Learn from your experiences and always be seeking new ones.
Learn: Seek opportunities to develop personally and professionally. Expand your perspective by learning new skills, taking fun courses, or simply reading a new book.
Challenge: Embrace challenges as growth opportunities, and find value in successes and failures alike.

#Advocate for Yourself and Others

Negotiate: Ask for what you want (and need!), never accept less than what you’re worth, and always look for ways to create a better environment for yourself and your team.
Celebrate: Cheer for yourself and your team by proudly celebrating accomplishments, milestones, and the wins along the way.
Articulate: Confidently share your opinions, questions, and recommendations. You know your stuff, and people will benefit from hearing your perspective.

Great Female Leaders Take #Action

By being intentional about who you are, how you present yourself, and how you approach the world - you will develop a leadership style that makes you (and those you lead) shine.