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Editor’s note: Today’s post is authored by Gloria Martinez. Her bio is at the end of the article.
Today’s job search requires you to keep both hands on the wheel. Any passive approach to finding opportunities fails. It doesn’t work. You must remain engaged throughout your career or face significant challenges shifting gears.
Advice for the Young Career Woman—
Dear strong, intelligent, and independent twenty-something:
You have what it takes to make it to the top. This world, that company, and those business leaders have been waiting for you to walk through the front doors and change everything. You are a woman with all the skill and personality necessary to change the face of business and will conquer all that you set out to accomplish. It will take a little determination and elbow grease, but you will get there because you have the heart and passion for making it happen. There are just a couple of things to keep in mind as you move your mountains: count your gender as a strength, don’t be afraid to take strategic risks, and continuously press forward.
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” -Eleanor Roosevelt
We live in a time in which women are gaining more attention than ever before, not just in the workplace but the world. Don’t let the stereotypes discourage you; your gender is one of your greatest assets. The fact that you are a woman is a strength for problem solving and business strategizing. It is no surprise that according to a reputable forecast for 2017, there will be a record number of female CEOs leading businesses listed as Fortune 500 companies. Who is to say that you won’t be the next leader on that list? American businesses owned by women who hold at least 51% of the company, actually get unique opportunities and special advantages. So count your gender as a strength, and start that climb to the top of the ladder.
What is your dream worth to you? Is it worth long hours, lost sleep, or shed tears? If it is, then it is certainly worth all of the strategic risks, as well. It might be as simple as asking your boss for more responsibility to show them you are willing to handle it. Perhaps you decide to risk it all by giving your two weeks notice at your current office to change careers to the one you’ve always wanted. History is full of women who took a leap of faith and landed at the top of their career. Scarier than the thought of failing, would never be allowing yourself the opportunity to try it at all, and if you happen to fail, you will gain the insight for how to do things differently in the future.
“A common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” – Alice Walker
Do not let anyone look down on you because of your gender, your age, your height, or any other quality that speaks loud and clear to who you are. Press forward, and prove your ability by your work ethic. Surprise your boss by your bold, intentional dedication to the company. Set the standard high and become the representation of a model employee. This way, you will eventually earn your seat as a leader in both position and reputation.
When things get challenging, write your favorite motivational quote on a sticky note to leave on your desk. Play an inspirational song on the way to work. Find a way to encourage yourself all the way up that mountain, expecting to make it to the very top. Your career doesn’t have to be limited to the dimness of the lingering so-called “glass ceiling. “Shatter it all together, and make your future as bright as you are.
Ms. Gloria Martinez believes that while women have made many advancements toward “shattering the glass ceiling,” there is still much to be done. It is her aim to help increase the number of women-led businesses by educating others about the topic at womenled.org.
About Mark Anthony Dyson
I am the "The Voice of Job Seekers!" I offer compassionate career and job search advice as I hack and re-imagine the job search process. You need to be "the prescription to an employer's job description." You must be solution-oriented and work in positions in companies where you are the remedy. Your job search must be a lifestyle, and your career must be in front of you constantly. You can no longer shed your aspirations at the change seasons. There are strengths you have that need constant use and development. Be sure you sign up to download my E-Book, "421 Modern Job Search Tips 2021!" You can find my career advice and work in media outlets such as Forbes, Inc., Fast Company, Harvard Business Review, Glassdoor, and many other outlets.