Rewriting the Rules for Woman Leaders: Unlocking the Women's Power Code

In today's fast-paced and dynamic business landscape, women are increasingly stepping into leadership roles. While we have made significant progress, there is still a long way to go in achieving true gender equality in leadership positions. To break through the remaining barriers, it's time to rewrite the rules for women leaders and tap into what I like to call the "Women's Power Code."

Traditionally, there was the Good Old Boys Code for men in the '50s through the '70s. The show Mad Men perfectly illustrated the Good Old Boys Code with men drinking martinis in private "gentlemen's clubs” and women as either secretaries or stay-at-home moms.

We saw the emergence of the "Bro Culture and Code" a little later. I call this the "Bumping Culture." This was characterized by fist bumping, chest bumping, and machoism. This culture not only did not work for most women, it also did not work for many men from different cultures.

The Status Quo:

Despite the strides we've made in recent years, the corporate world continues to grapple with gender inequality at the highest levels. Women are underrepresented in executive and board positions and often face unique challenges on their journey to leadership. This inequity deprives organizations of diverse perspectives and stunts individual career growth and development.

Rewriting the Rules:

One of the most compelling concepts in the book "The Power Code," written by Katty Kat and Claire Shipman, was how men and women see and use power differently. One of their theories was that men want and use power "over" someone or something. While women tend to want and use power "with" someone or something.

I thought sharing initial ideas on the new Women's Power Code would be fun. Here are a few suggestions, and feel free to add your ideas.

• Be authentic and genuine.

• Play to your strengths and be the best version of yourself.

• Put yourself #1 on your to-do list.

• Be powerful and empathic.

• Be a strong team player and coach.

• Stand up and stand out.

• Be valuable, visible, and vocal.

• Support, don't sabotage, and collaborate; don't compete.

• Surround yourself with people who lift you and support your dreams.

• Leave the world a better place for women today, tomorrow, and forever.

Additionally, we must adopt a multifaceted approach combining individual empowerment, organizational support, and societal change to rewrite the rules for women leaders.

• Empowerment through Education and Skill Building: Women need access to quality education and mentorship programs to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to excel in leadership roles. Investing in continuous learning is crucial for women to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving job market.

• Cultivating a Growth Mindset: We must encourage women to embrace a growth mindset where challenges are viewed as opportunities for growth, not roadblocks. This mindset shift can empower women to take on leadership roles with resilience and determination.

• Advocating for Authenticity: Women should be encouraged to lead authentically, embracing their unique qualities and leadership styles. Authenticity fosters trust and respect, two essential components of effective leadership.

• Mentorship and Sponsorship Programs: Organizations can play a pivotal role in rewriting the rules by establishing mentorship and sponsorship programs that connect aspiring women leaders with experienced mentors and advocates. These programs provide valuable guidance and opportunities for career advancement.

• Equal Pay and Equal Opportunity: Companies must commit to pay equity and ensure women have equal access to leadership positions. Transparent and fair hiring and promotion processes are vital to achieving this goal.

• Work-Life Integration: Encouraging a healthy work-life integration is vital for women leaders. Flexible work arrangements, parental leave policies, and supportive workplace cultures can help women balance their professional and personal lives more effectively.

• Building Inclusive Workplaces: Organizations should prioritize diversity and inclusion efforts, ensuring that women from all backgrounds have a seat at the table. Inclusive workplaces celebrate differences and foster innovation.

• Community and Network Building: Women should actively engage in professional networks and communities where they can share experiences, collaborate, and support each other's growth.

The Women's Power Code represents a roadmap for rewriting the rules that have held women back in leadership positions for far too long. By empowering women through education, mindset shifts, mentorship, and advocating for equal opportunities, we can pave the way for a future where women leaders are not the exception but the norm.

Let's work together to unlock the Women's Power Code, break down the barriers that limit women's leadership potential, and create a world where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive as leaders and make meaningful contributions to their organizations and society. It's time to rewrite the rules and build a more equitable and inclusive future for women leaders everywhere.